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{AS_Ballista}Ballista

{AS_Ballista_descr}These artillery pieces resemble giant crossbows, on a simple wheeled carriage. They can hurl javelins with great accuracy, and the power of these machines means that their bolts can pierce any armour. 

{AS_Ballista_descr_short}Resembling a giant crossbow, this powerful weapon can fling a javelin to a great range, skewering men with ease.

{AS_Bombard}Bombard

{AS_Bombard_descr}The first primitive gunpowder siege artillery, bombards were created in China and Western Europe in the early 14th century and spread to the rest of the world by the late 14th century. They are forged from bronze or iron, and designed to fire stone balls that crumble enemy defences. They also shoot inaccurate flaming balls wrapped in pitch-soaked rags, that can incinerate enemy troops!

{AS_Bombard_descr_short}Primitive siege-gun forged of bronze or iron, can shoot solid stone or flaming shot. Inaccurate versus units.

{AS_Cannon}Cannon

{AS_Cannon_descr}The archetypical cannon was used all across the world by the mid to late 15th century. Mounted on a large wheeled chassis and featuring a longer improved barrel, the cannon is far superior to the bombards that preceded it. Able to demolish enemy walls from a greater range and able to fire troop-killing explosive shells, the cannon is rightly feared.

{AS_Cannon_descr_short}The typical 'cannon' is powerful and good against both units and defences. Capable of firing solid and explosive shots.

{AS_Catapult}Catapult

{AS_Catapult_descr}Constructed of wood and capable of flinging stones large enough to crush a man's head, the catapult was a common site on the ancient Roman battlefield. Now in the medieval era, the catapult is being replaced by newer and more powerful weapons.

{AS_Catapult_descr_short}Older style rock-flinging wooden artillery piece. Can throw flaming and normal shots.

{AS_Grand_Bombard}Grand Bombard

{AS_Grand_Bombard_descr}The Grand Bombard was created as an improvement to the bombard in the early 15th century. Made to be harder-hitting and with longer range than its predecessor, this iron-forged piece of siege artillery is able to inflict punishing damage on enemy defences. Like its predecessor, it too can deliver flaming chastisement to enemy troops.

{AS_Grand_Bombard_descr_short}The Grand Bombard has increased range, damage and accuracy compared to the bombard.

{AS_Monster_Bombard}Monster Bombard

{AS_Monster_Bombard_descr}The Gun to end all Guns. The Monster Bombard is made for one purpose only, the utter destruction of enemy defences. This massive Bombard fires a stone ball weighing well over half a ton, obliterating any but the most massive walls in one shot. Unfortunately the down side of all this firepower is that it takes an eternity to reload.

{AS_Monster_Bombard_descr_short}Massive Siege-Gun. Can destroy nearly any wall in one shot. Has very long range but slow reload time.

{AS_Rocket_Launcher}Rocket Launcher

{AS_Rocket_Launcher_descr}The Mongolian rocket launcher resembles a wooden, fire-spitting demon-wagon. Inspired by the rockets fired at them during the invasion of China, the Mongols have fiendishly mounted 36 of them on one frame. Although very inaccurate the rockets are fired in a great barrage, capable of hitting multiple units simultaneously.

{AS_Rocket_Launcher_descr_short}Rocket Launcher capable of delivering a great, if inaccurate salvo, over a large area.

{AS_Trebuchet}Trebuchet

{AS_Trebuchet_descr}The counter-weight Trebuchet is an evolution of the man-powered mangonel and catapults dating back before the 11th century. It has quickly spread throughout the world as an effective siege engine capable of lobbing large wall- crushing boulders. The Trebuchet is also able to fling such things as burning missiles and rotten animal remains to devastate enemy units.

{AS_Trebuchet_descr_short}Giant rock flinging artillery piece. Capable of flaming and normal shot. Also able to fling diseased cows!

{Afghan_Javelinmen}Afghan Javelinmen

{Afghan_Javelinmen_Mercs}Afghan Javelinmen

{Afghan_Javelinmen_Mercs_descr}Afghan Javelinmen, are hardy and fierce tribesmen from tribes either allied or captured by the Timirids. Used to a harsh existence, these wild warriors are excellent skirmishers. They excel at hurling javelins at their foes, weakening units and breaking up formations, but can fight in close combat when the situation demands.

{Afghan_Javelinmen_Mercs_descr_short}Made up from fierce Afghan tribesmen, these excellent skirmishers hurl javelins at their foes, but can fight at close quarters if necessary.

{Afghan_Javelinmen_descr}Afghan Javelinmen, are hardy and fierce tribesmen from tribes either allied or captured by the Timirids. Used to a harsh existence, these wild warriors are excellent skirmishers. They excel at hurling their javelins at their foes, weakening units and breaking up formations, but can fight in close combat when the situation demands.

{Afghan_Javelinmen_descr_short}Made up from fierce Afghan tribesmen, these excellent skirmishers hurl javelins at their foes, but can fight at close quarters if necessary.

{Akinjis}Akinjis

{Akinjis_descr}Akinjis, meaning 'raiders', are light cavalry serving in Muslim forces. These Akinjis fight unarmoured for speed and are armed with a bow. Able to adopt a shooting circle formation, which provides constant fire against the enemy. While useful for harassing flanks and enemy archers, this unit will quickly dissolve in melee combat.

{Akinjis_descr_short}Light cavalry used as mercenaries by Muslim forces. These Akinjis fight unarmoured for speed and are armed with a bow.

{Alan_Light_Cavalry}Alan Light Cavalry

{Alan_Light_Cavalry_descr}Alan Light Cavalry are hardy horsemen, accustomed to the plains and steppes of Eastern Europe and the Black Sea region. Having fought against the Byzantine Empire previously, now ironically they are highly valued as mercenaries by their former enemy. They are equipped with spear and light armour, useful for skirmishing, raiding and ambushing tactics or for covering flanks.

{Alan_Light_Cavalry_descr_short}Hardy horsemen accustomed to the plains and steppes of Eastern Europe and the Black Sea region. Excellent light cavalry.

{Albanian_Cavalry}Albanian Cavalry

{Albanian_Cavalry_descr}Equipped with spear and mace, and protected by armour, these light cavalrymen have earned a fierce reputation while resisting the Turkish invasion of Albania. Initially these hardy fighters first came to Italy to help the Aragonese Empire defend its holds in Southern Italy, although following the Turkish conquest of Albania, more cavalrymen fled to Italy and found work as mercenaries.

{Albanian_Cavalry_descr_short}Fierce light cavalry with spear and mace

{Almughavars}Almughavars

{Almughavars_descr}The name Almughavar comes from Arabic, 'al mughavir' meaning raiders. Originating from Aragon, from both Christian and Muslim backgrounds, these professional warriors are elite light infantry skirmishers armed with javelins and spears, and sometimes armour. Despite their light equipment, they have a fearsome reputation.

{Almughavars_descr_short}Elite light infantry skirmishers armed with javelins and spears, and sometimes armour.

{Arab_Cavalry}Arab Cavalry

{Arab_Cavalry_descr}Recruited from the many Arabs settled across North Africa and the Middle East, these men make useful light cavalry, able to chase off horse archers, run down light infantry, and to get round enemy flanks. Their armour can be also be upgraded, allowing them to take on heavier cavalry. Although used to a hot climate, they are not desert troops.

{Arab_Cavalry_descr_short}Light cavalry recruited from settled areas, and well suited to taking on archers, light infantry and other light cavalry.

{Archer_Militia}Archer Militia

{Archer_Militia_descr}Archer Militia are bow-equipped peasants called upon to provide a settlement with a garrison of missile troops. Whilst poorly armoured, these troops are expected to shoot at an enemy from the safety of their own walls. 

{Archer_Militia_descr_short}Archer Militia are peasant archers called up to defend settlements.

{Armenian_Archers}Armenian Archers

{Armenian_Archers_descr}After the Seljuk Turks invaded Armenia, many Christians fled south, where they formed the Christian Kingdom of Cilicia. Many Armenian troops from there earn their living as mercenaries fighting for anyone who can pay them. Feisty men from the mountains, they are lightly armed, but still effective.

{Armenian_Archers_descr_short}Armenian mercenaries from the mountains. Lightly armed, but still effective.

{Armenian_Cavalry}Armenian Cavalry

{Armenian_Cavalry_descr}After the Seljuk Turks invaded Armenia, many Christians fled south, where they formed the Christian Kingdom of Cilicia. Many Armenian troops from there serve as mercenaries fighting for anyone who can pay them. This unit of noble heavy cavalry, fights in the style of Western Knights, and is equipped with lance and heavy mail.

{Armenian_Cavalry_descr_short}Armenian mercenaries equipped in a western style, armed with lances and protected by mail.

{Armored_Clergy}Norse War Clerics

{Armored_Clergy_descr}Scandinavian Bishops are not your average men of the cloth. These clerics when roused to righteous anger would ritually place upon their altar their cassock and mitre and gird themselves with the accoutrements of war. Leading a retinue to rival a king, these clerics are outlawed in Sweden but still deliver holy chastisement to the foes of Denmark

{Armored_Clergy_descr_short}Heavily armoured Bishop and cavalry retinue. Encased in plate armour and wielding foe-crushing maces

{Armored_Sergeants}Armoured Sergeants

{Armored_Sergeants_descr}Armoured Sergeants are professional warriors, drawn from the lower classes. They have some skill in combat and are well equipped with long spears, large shields and mail armour. They're very solid defensive units, able to resist attacks from both foot and horse, so long as they are well supported. If necessary they can form a defensive circle.

{Armored_Sergeants_descr_short}Trained and hardened warriors protected by a large shield and mail. Armed with spears and able to form a defensive ring of spears.

{Armored_Swordsmen}Armoured Swordsmen

{Armored_Swordsmen_descr}Armoured Swordsmen represent those of the knightly class with a desire to fight on foot, or too poor to afford a horse. Able to afford excellent armour and swords, they can punish most other infantry. These units along with archers form the backbone of many English armies.

{Armored_Swordsmen_descr_short}Footmen of the knightly class able to afford excellent armour and swords, they can punish most other infantry.

{Arquebusiers}Arquebusiers

{Arquebusiers_descr}Fired at close range and quite accurate, with only a little chance of exploding and killing the person firing it. This early type of firearm is capable of firing deadly volleys that can pierce most armour. This noisy, smokey and lethal weapon is so intimidating it can cause its targets to run in fear.

{Arquebusiers_descr_short}Fired at close range, this noisy, smokey and lethal weapon causes morale damage as well as physical hurt.

{Arrow_Warriors}Arrow Warriors

{Arrow_Warriors_descr}Arrow warriors are the specialised missile troops of the warrior cults in Aztec armies. Armed with a giant arrow used much in the same way as a javelin, these warriors always save their last one for use as a melee weapon.

{Arrow_Warriors_descr_short}Specialised ranged Aztec troops who wielded javelin-sized arrows which they also used in melee.

{Aventurier}Aventurier

{Aventurier_descr}Called upon to protect France from invading foreign powers, Aventuriers are highly skilled patriotic nobles skilled in the use of many arms including the crossbow and sword. Primarily utilised as missile troops using their crossbows, Aventuriers are so well armoured with plate and skilled with a sword that they can also be used as shock troops when called upon.

{Aventurier_descr_short}Well skilled troops armed with a crossbow and sword and armoured in plate.

{Aventuros}Aventuros

{Aventuros_descr}Aventuros are impetuous and adventurous gentry, eager to see the world and fight. Able to afford good equipment, these elite troops are armed with pikes and good mail or plate armour. Despite being well trained these hot blooded nobles can act recklessly in battle, eager to out do other units and each other.

{Aventuros_descr_short}Impetuous and hot blooded gentry, armed with pikes and excellent armour, this elite unit is one of the best pike units available.

{Azabs}Azabs

{Azabs_descr}In times of war, each village and town is expected to produce, fully equip and support a number of conscripts, Azabs, meaning bachelors. These poorly armed light troops are expected to guard bridges and roads and support the heavier troops.

{Azabs_descr_short}Poorly armed light troops expected to guard bridges and roads and support the heavier troops.

{Aztec_Archers}Aztec Archers

{Aztec_Archers_descr}Aztec archers are equipped with a bow and padded armour and can be drawn from any part of Aztec society, although most come from the peasant class, as most Aztecs are trained in the way of the bow from a young age to help in hunting. For melee combat they are armed with a macana club.

{Aztec_Archers_descr_short}Aztec archers are equipped with a basic bow, light armour and a club.

{Aztec_Bodyguard}Bodyguard

{Aztec_Bodyguard_descr}The Bodyguard of Aztec commanders. These troops are the Aztec elite, chosen from the ranks of the Cuahchiqueh for their bravery, strength and ferocity. They accompany an Aztec general on campaign and into battle, armed with a chimalli shield, a maquahuitl club, and wearing ichcahuipilli padded armour. These units fight with a barely restrained madness and ferocity.

{Aztec_Bodyguard_descr_short}The retinue of an Aztec general.  Armed with a chimalli shield, a maquahuitl club and wearing ichcahuipilli padded armour.

{Aztec_Peasants}Peasants

{Aztec_Peasants_descr}The bottom tier of Aztec society are called on to fight when numbers are needed. Peasants are used to fill gaps in armies where more important units are not needed. Peasants are armed only with a simple macana club.

{Aztec_Peasants_descr_short}Aztec peasants are armed with a simple club.

{Aztec_Spear_Throwers}Aztec Spear Throwers

{Aztec_Spear_Throwers_descr}Aztec spear throwers are a natural battlefield evolution of the Aztec hunting tradition, except now they are hunting men. Armed with a short throwing spear and macana club, they are armoured with light cloth armour and a small shield.

{Aztec_Spear_Throwers_descr_short}Aztec spear throwing unit. Armed with throwing spears and a macana club. Protected with a small shield.

{Aztec_Spearmen}Aztec Spearmen

{Aztec_Spearmen_descr}Aztec spearmen are Aztec warriors who have yet to capture an enemy. Armed with the Tepuztopilli, which is a spear tipped with shards of obsidian, and only lightly armoured with a small shield. The Aztec spearmen must rely on bravery and cunning to progress up the ranks.

{Aztec_Spearmen_descr_short}Aztec spearmen armed with a spear, light armour and shield.

{Aztec_Warriors}Aztec Warriors

{Aztec_Warriors_descr}The Aztec warrior is a mainstay of Aztec armies. Armoured with padded cotton armour, a chimalli shield and armed with a maquahuitl club, the Aztec warrior is a mobile and brave soldier able to hit lightly armed enemies savagely. The more successful these warriors become, the more outlandish their uniforms are.

{Aztec_Warriors_descr_short}Aztec warrior armoured with padded armour, a chimalli shield and armed with a maquahuitl club.

{Balkan_Archers}Balkan Archers

{Balkan_Archers_descr}Balkan archers are peasants who have escaped their terrible lives to take up arms as mercenaries in the service of whomever is willing to pay. Whist being poorly skilled, armed and armoured, these wretches make up for it by being cheap. 

{Balkan_Archers_descr_short}Poorly trained and equipped archer mercenaries.

{Battlefield_Assassins}Battlefield Assassins

{Battlefield_Assassins_descr}Tracing their history to an obscure order of knights created to kill a Turkish Sultan, these battlefield assassins are masters of concealment. They have trained so thoroughly that they can blend into nearly any environment when stationary. This comes at a cost though, unable to wear heavy armour these men are the masters of the hit and fade.

{Battlefield_Assassins_descr_short}Tracing their history to an obscure order of knights, these battlefield assassins are masters of stealth and death.

{Bedouin_Camel_Riders}Bedouin Camel Riders

{Bedouin_Camel_Riders_descr}A nomadic desert people, Bedouin are hardy but unruly troops. Lightly equipped but well suited to desert fighting, these warriors annoy enemies with their arrows, while letting the heat of the desert sap the strength of those that pursue them. Although best kept out of close combat, these warriors can be useful against lighter cavalry units, as horses dislike the smell and appearance of camels. 

{Bedouin_Camel_Riders_descr_short}Hardy but lightly equipped desert skirmishers. They're also useful against light cavalry, as horses detest the smell of camels.

{Bedouin_Cavalry}Bedouin Cavalry

{Bedouin_Cavalry_descr}A nomadic desert people, Bedouin are hardy but unruly troops. Lightly equipped and well suited to desert fighting, they are useful for harassing archers and annoying enemy flanks. Although good for skirmishing, these warriors are not suited to prolonged melees.

{Bedouin_Cavalry_descr_short}Lightly equipped skirmishing desert dwellers well suited to desert fighting, but not suitable for prolonged melees.

{Berber_Spearmen}Berber Spearmen

{Berber_Spearmen_descr}Hailing from North Africa, many Berbers are now settled in the lands of Moorish Spain. These spearmen are armed with long spears and shields but little armour. Able to form into a circular defensive formation, these troops can give attackers a nasty surprise, although they are susceptible to prolonged melee attacks. 

{Berber_Spearmen_descr_short}Armed with spears these troops can give attackers a nasty surprise, although they are susceptible to prolonged melee attacks. 

{Berdiche_Axemen}Berdiche Axemen

{Berdiche_Axemen_descr}Wielding the mighty 'berdiche' these axemen strike fear into the hearts of their enemies, just before striking into the hearts of their enemies! Berdiche Axemen receive plenty of training to wield their fearsome two-handed axes and are armoured appropriately with armour from mail up to heavy brigandine. Many Russian generals use these men as shock troops softening up enemy formations.

{Berdiche_Axemen_descr_short}Two-handed axemen used as shock troops. Can be armoured from mail to brigandine.

{Bill_Militia}Bill Militia

{Bill_Militia_descr}Bill Militia are commoners handed a billhook and if lucky some armour, then formed into a unit to defend a settlement. Not afforded the training of regular troops, these militia are neither particularly skilled or brave fighters, but their weapon is versatile and lethal.

{Bill_Militia_descr_short}Militia unit armed with a billhook and little armour.

{Billmen}Billmen

{Billmen_descr}The billhook was originally developed from a farming tool, and consists of an axe and hook on the end of a long pole. A trained billmen can use it to stab, hack and drag down his enemies, including both infantrymen and cavalry. It is excellent as both a defensive and offensive weapon.

{Billmen_descr_short}A trained billmen can stab, hack and drag down his enemies, including both infantry and cavalry.

{Bohemond_of_Taranto}Bohemond of Taranto

{Bohemond_of_Taranto_descr}Bohemond of Taranto and his bodyguard.

{Bohemond_of_Taranto_descr_short}Bohemond of Taranto and his bodyguard.

{Border_Horse}Border Horse

{Border_Horse_descr}This light cavalry unit is accustomed to raiding and skirmishing and can quickly be overcome in a prolonged melee with the wrong enemy. Equipped with light mail and spear, this unit is handy for out flanking your opponent and chasing down archers.

{Border_Horse_descr_short}Equipped with light mail and spear, this unit is handy for out flanking your opponent and chasing down archers.

{Bosnian_Archers}Bosnian Archers

{Bosnian_Archers_descr}Due to the fractious nature of the region, Bosnian archers get a lot of practice and are highly skilled. Like most missile troops they are lightly armoured, except that they carry a large wing type shield 

{Bosnian_Archers_descr_short}Bosnian archers are lightly armoured, well trained archers with the added protection of a winged shield

{Boyar_Sons}Boyar Sons

{Boyar_Sons_descr}Eager to prove themselves and find adventure, these sons of Russia's aristocracy, often second sons or the sons of poor Boyars, flock to battles. Able to afford good equipment, these young adventurers wear light mail or light brigandine armour and have a javelin to hurl at their foes, as well as an axe for hand to hand combat. They are happy to fight both mounted and on foot.

{Boyar_Sons_descr_short}These young adventurers wear light mail or light brigandine armour and carry a javelin and an axe .

{Broken_Lances}Broken Lances

{Broken_Lances_descr}In medieval Italy, a lance meant a man at arms supported by some lighter troops. The term broken lance, or "lanze spezzate" refers to men at arms who have been separated from their supporting troops, and hired separately. They are well disciplined professional soldiers who fight as heavy cavalry with unbroken lances, and are well protected by the finest Italian plate armour.

{Broken_Lances_descr_short}Broken lances are well trained and experienced professional soldiers, protected by plate armour, armed with lances and swords.

{Bulgarian_Brigands}Bulgarian Brigands

{Bulgarian_Brigands_Mercs}Bulgarian Brigands

{Bulgarian_Brigands_Mercs_descr}These Brigands use their dishonourably honed skills to waylay, or worse, murder passing victims. When a band gets big enough it will often hire its services to whomever is willing to pay. Although excellent archers, collecting booty requires closing with their victims and being prepared for a close encounter of the violent kind. Equipped with a composite bow, sword, padded armour and a shield.

{Bulgarian_Brigands_Mercs_descr_short}Brigands armed with a composite bow, sword, padded armour and shield.

{Bulgarian_Brigands_descr}These Brigands use their dishonourably honed skills to waylay, or worse, murder passing victims. When a band gets big enough it will often hire its services to whomever is willing to pay. Although excellent archers, collecting booty requires closing with their victims and being prepared for a close encounter of the violent kind. Equipped with a composite bow, sword, padded armour and a shield.

{Bulgarian_Brigands_descr_short}Brigands armed with a composite bow, sword, padded armour and shield.

{Byzantine_Cavalry}Byzantine Cavalry

{Byzantine_Cavalry_descr}Made up of soldiers with small land grants, 'pronoiai', these cavalrymen are a type of reservist who are called up in times of need. Although armed with bows, they are not as mobile as the Turkish cavalry they often face. However, they are better armoured and much more capable in close combat, making them very versatile. They wear padded or mail armour and are equipped with a composite bow and sword.

{Byzantine_Cavalry_descr_short}Versatile lightly armoured medium cavalry, equally able shooting their bows, or fighting with their swords.

{Byzantine_Guard_Archers}Byzantine Guard Archers

{Byzantine_Guard_Archers_descr}Byzantine guard troops are financed by the Emperor himself and unlike many Byzantine units consist purely of Greek troops. Skilled in the use of the composite bow, these troops issue a challenge to all Byzantium's enemies at range. Also equipped with a sword and wearing mail, the Guard Archers can withstand more combat than many other missile units.

{Byzantine_Guard_Archers_descr_short}Byzantium Guard Archers are well trained missile troops equipped with composite bow, sword, mail and a shield.

{Byzantine_Infantry}Byzantine Infantry

{Byzantine_Infantry_descr}Made up of soldiers recruited with small 'pronoiai', land grants, these Infantry "made up of peoples from all lands", fight for the Byzantine Empire more for profit than any sense of loyalty. These soldiers are equipped with a sword and large shield and wear mail armour for protection.

{Byzantine_Infantry_descr_short}Byzantine infantry unit equipped with sword, shield and mail armour.

{Byzantine_Lancers}Byzantine Lancers

{Byzantine_Lancers_descr}Well trained and well disciplined, Byzantine Lancers are well armoured and equipped with a lance and a sword. Common throughout the Byzantine Empire, their training and discipline makes them very useful on the battlefield

{Byzantine_Lancers_descr_short}Well trained and disciplined troops used throughout the Byzantine Empire, these Lancers are well armoured and equipped.

{Byzantine_Spearmen}Byzantine Spearmen

{Byzantine_Spearmen_descr}Byzantine Spearmen are a step up from spear militias, better trained and equipped, these troops are able to form a defensive ring. These are longer serving soldiers, used to defending settlements and bolstering armies. Equipped with a spear and shield these troops are a little more robust than local militias formed by peasants.

{Byzantine_Spearmen_descr_short}A step up from spearmen militia, these troops are equipped with spear and shield, capable of forming a defensive ring.

{CE_Wagon_Fort}Wagon Fort

{CE_Wagon_Fort_descr}These wagons have been reinforced where possible and are accompanied by hardened well trained troops, armed with crossbows and wearing light armour. Used defensively, these wagons are formed into a circle creating an effective barricade from which troops can fire upon the enemy in relative safety.

{CE_Wagon_Fort_descr_short}Wagons that can be formed into a circular barricade, behind from which the troops armed with crossbows can fire.

{Camel_Gunners}Camel Gunners

{Camel_Gunners_descr}These gunners use a type of heavy matchlock musket, which fires a powerful shot. Combine this firepower with a camel and the end result is a powerful and very mobile missile unit that is ideal for desert warfare. As an added bonus the camels scare horses.

{Camel_Gunners_descr_short}Mounted on a camel this unit fires a powerful musket called a "jezail'.

{Carroccio_Standard_M}Carroccio Standard

{Carroccio_Standard_M_descr}The Carroccio is a wagon bearing the city's standard. It acts as an inspirational focal point for the entire army, driving the men to new heights of bravery. It is guarded by an elite unit, who protect it with their lives. 

{Carroccio_Standard_M_descr_short}Wagon bearing Milan's standard to inspire the army, pushed by elite troops armed with spears and light armour.

{Carroccio_Standard_V}Carroccio Standard

{Carroccio_Standard_V_descr}The Carroccio is a wagon bearing the city's standard. It acts as an inspirational focal point for the entire army, driving the men to new heights of bravery. It is guarded by an elite unit, who protect it with their lives. 

{Carroccio_Standard_V_descr_short}Wagon bearing Venice's standard to inspire the army, pushed by hardened troops armed with crossbows, swords and light armour.

{Catalans}Catalans

{Catalans_descr}These warriors from the north east of Spain have a fearsome reputation, and are sought after as mercenaries throughout the Mediterranean. Their fiercely flung javelins can pierce right through a mailed man, and despite their light equipment, these men are not shy about getting stuck in with their spears, when their missiles are exhausted.

{Catalans_descr_short}Elite mercenaries, originally from Aragon, armed with javelins and light armour.

{Chivalric_Knights}Chivalric Knights

{Chivalric_Knights_descr}True knights in shining armour, in principle at least, these men espouse the noble ideals of chivalry and honour. In reality they are brutally effective warriors who practice their skills daily in tournaments and mock fights. On the battlefield, their steel plate protection makes them hard to kill, while their heavy horses and long lances mean that only the most firmly planted wall of spears can resist them.

{Chivalric_Knights_descr_short}Elite warriors clad in steel plate armour, these men pack a ferocious charge, while being hard to kill.

{Christian_Guard}Christian Guard

{Christian_Guard_descr}Being overthrown by their own palace guard is a risk faced by many rulers, and one way to prevent this is to hire guards from outside of their own cultures, who cannot hope to wield power themselves. Thus the Sultans of the Moors hire Christian Knights to protect them. Their prowess in battle is an added bonus.

{Christian_Guard_descr_short}Christians fighting for the Moors, these elite troops resemble the western knights of the time. 

{Condottieri}Condottieri

{Condottieri_descr}Enriched by trade, but with only a few small armies, Italian city states have resorted to hiring companies of mercenaries known as Condottieri. Very well equipped with a lance and plate armour, these trained and experienced soldiers are known for their capricious behaviour, such as avoiding combat, and swapping sides for better pay before or even during battle!

{Condottieri_descr_short}Armed with a lance and plate armour these trained and experienced mercenaries are well known for their capricious ways.

{Conquistadores}Conquistadores

{Conquistadores_descr}These men are the hardy pioneers that set out to conquer America. Although driven primarily by greed, they have exhibited exceptional bravery, cunning and resilience. With their horses, steel half plate armour, lances, and razor sharp steel swords, these men are absolutely devastating against the indigenous warriors of Mexico. They can only be recruited in America.

{Conquistadores_descr_short}Well trained and armed with lance and sword, they make superb heavy cavalry capable of devastating attacks. 

{Cossack_Cavalry}Cossack Cavalry

{Cossack_Cavalry_descr}Russian Cossacks spend much of their time on horseback, and as such are accustomed to the tasks of guarding and protecting towns, roads, forts and settlements. Renown for their bravery and hardiness, Cossacks are equipped with a sword and composite bow which they use from horseback.

{Cossack_Cavalry_descr_short}Fierce and hardy, although lacking in armour, Cossacks are equipped with a sword and composite bow which they use from horseback.

{Cossack_Musketeers}Cossack Musketeers

{Cossack_Musketeers_descr}Cossack Musketeers have inherited the proud military traditions of their cavalry brethren. Trained from a young age in the skills of war, these soldiers are superbly trained gunners wielding a powerful musket. Used to provide support for advancing cavalry or to defend a position, these troops reap a heavy toll which any Russian general can be proud of.

{Cossack_Musketeers_descr_short}Cossack Musketeers are highly trained gunners in light armour.

{Coyote_Priests}Coyote Priests

{Coyote_Priests_descr}Members of the priesthood engaged in combat along with regular soldiers. Once they had managed to capture 6 enemies alive, they were given a traditional coyote uniform to wear which frightened the opposition. These men were not just priests but were hardened warriors capable of cutting a mans heart out over an altar, and dealing death on the battlefield. 

{Coyote_Priests_descr_short}Members of the priesthood who engage in combat. Wearing a coyote suit and armed with a maquahuitl club.

{Croat_Axemen}Croat Axemen

{Croat_Axemen_descr}Croatian light infantry are well renown for their fierce axemen. These hardy warriors are armed with deadly two-handed axes and protected by light armour, accustomed to fighting in their rugged native terrain, and will do a good job at smashing into archers and poor quality troops.

{Croat_Axemen_descr_short}Hardy warriors armed with deadly two-handed axes and protected by light armour. Accustomed to fighting in their rugged native terrain.

{Crossbow_Militia}Crossbow Militia

{Crossbow_Militia_descr}Crossbow militia are inexpensive units formed to protect settlements. Being able to train townsfolk quickly in the use of the crossbow allows these units to be garrisoned frequently and the stopping power of the crossbow can make their withering fire lethal. Poorly armoured, it is just as well crossbow militia are expected to hide behind defensive walls.

{Crossbow_Militia_descr_short}Crossbow Militia are peasant crossbowmen called up to defend settlements. Very poorly armoured.

{Crossbowmen}Crossbowmen

{Crossbowmen_descr}The crossbow is a potent weapon ready to be used with minimal training unlike other archery weapons. It is slow to reload and lacks the distance of drawn bows but makes up for it in power. Despite the Church's dislike of crossbows being used by Christians against Christians, they are used throughout Europe by peasants and nobles alike.

{Crossbowmen_descr_short}Slow to reload, but a potent and easy to use missile weapon firing powerful bolts.

{Crusader_Knights}Crusader Knights

{Crusader_Knights_descr}It is inevitable in a soldier's life that a few sins are committed. These men are keen to seek forgiveness for theirs by partaking in a holy crusade, and to wield their swords in the Lord's name. Their heavy mail, and lances enable them to do "the Lord's" work most effectively. This unit can only be hired by a general on crusade and cannot be trusted to fight other Catholics.

{Crusader_Knights_descr_short}These experienced knights in heavy mail seek forgiveness of their sins by going on crusade.

{Crusader_Sergeants}Crusader Sergeants

{Crusader_Sergeants_descr}In a soldier's life, it is inevitable that many sins are committed, which can weigh heavily on the conscience. The rank and file, as well as the nobility, can earn redemption for their sins by joining a crusade, and these men are eager for the opportunity. Give them a chance, and they will defend your army from God's foes. Wearing mail, and wielding a long spear, these are excellent defensive infantry.

{Crusader_Sergeants_descr_short}Professional hardened warriors, protected by good armour, armed with spears and eager to go on Crusade.

{Cuahchiqueh}Cuahchiqueh

{Cuahchiqueh_descr}Life long warriors who have refused promotion to a command position so as to continue fighting. These men are considered the military elite and are great shock troops. They are equipped like most soldiers, in padded ichcahuipilli armour, chimalli shields and wield the maquahuitl club. They are also far more extravagantly dressed than common warriors. Since their prowess is well known, they cause great fear amongst any who must face them.

{Cuahchiqueh_descr_short}Extravagantly dressed elite shock troops. Their well known prowess causes fear to their enemies.

{Cuman_Horse_Archers}Cuman Horse Archers

{Cuman_Horse_Archers_descr}The Cumans are a nomadic Turkish people occupying the area north of the Black sea, who are often employed as mercenaries. Accustomed to a life in the saddle, they are excellent light horse archers equipped with powerful composite bows. They prefer to avoid hand to hand combat though.

{Cuman_Horse_Archers_descr_short}Asiatic Nomads, who fight as mercenary horse archers, wearing little armour and armed with a composite bow.

{Demi_Lancers}Demi Lancers

{Demi_Lancers_descr}Demi Lancers are representative of the trend in the latter medieval period of reducing the amount of overall armour, while improving the remaining armour to protect vital areas. With less armour and little to no armour on the mount, Demi Lancers are more mobile and cheaper to equip than their fully armoured counter parts.

{Demi_Lancers_descr_short}Armed with a lance but with less armour these units are mobile and deadly.

{Desert_Archers}Desert Archers

{Desert_Archers_descr}Hardy men from the desert used to the hardships of sun and sand. They are adept with the bow, but lack the equipment for close combat. A wise general will use this unit to pepper the enemy with arrows, but will keep them out of harm's way.

{Desert_Archers_descr_short}Hardy men from the desert, adept with the bow, but lacking the equipment for close combat.

{Desert_Cavalry}Desert Cavalry

{Desert_Cavalry_descr}The Desert Cavalry are a mixture of Moors and Arabs living in the arid and desert regions of North Africa and the Middle East. The heat of the desert makes armour unpopular with these men, but their loose-fitting robes give them protection both from the sun, and spent missiles or light blows. Armed with javelins these fast moving units are best against other light troops, or harassing enemy flanks where they can stay out of harm's way. 

{Desert_Cavalry_descr_short}Fast skirmishers with javelins, best used to harass enemy flanks and fend off archers.

{Dismounted_Arab_Cavalry}Dismounted Arab Cavalry

{Dismounted_Arab_Cavalry_descr}Recruited from the many Arabs settled across North Africa and the Middle East, usually fighting mounted, they will dismount for duties that demand it. Although used to a hot climate, they are not desert troops.

{Dismounted_Arab_Cavalry_descr_short}Arabs from the towns and cities throughout the Middle East.

{Dismounted_Archers}Dismounted Archers

{Dismounted_Archers_descr}Despite preferring to fight on horseback, these warriors have left their mounts behind to fight on foot. These light horse archers are lightly armoured and equipped with a hand weapon and their mighty recurve bow, able to pepper their enemies with arrows and stay clear of trouble.

{Dismounted_Archers_descr_short}These light mounted missile troops have dismounted, yet they are still formidable warriors.

{Dismounted_Boyar_Sons}Dismounted Boyar Sons

{Dismounted_Boyar_Sons_descr}Eager to prove themselves and find adventures, these sons of Russia's aristocracy, often second sons or the sons of poor Boyars, flock to battles. Able to afford good equipment, these young adventurers wear light mail or light brigandine armour and carry an axe for fighting dismounted.

{Dismounted_Boyar_Sons_descr_short}These young adventurers wear light mail or light brigandine armour and carry an axe.

{Dismounted_Broken_Lances}Dismounted Broken Lances

{Dismounted_Broken_Lances_descr}In medieval Italy, a lance meant a man at arms supported by some lighter troops. The term broken lance, or 'lanze spezzate' refers to men at arms who have been separated from their supporting troops, and hired separately. They are well disciplined professional soldiers who can fight on horseback, but often fight on foot. They are armoured with the finest Italian plate, and armed with a sword.

{Dismounted_Broken_Lances_descr_short}Broken lances are well trained and experienced professional soldiers, protected by plate mail, armed with swords.

{Dismounted_Byzantine_Lancers}Dismounted Byzantine Lancers

{Dismounted_Byzantine_Lancers_descr}Although generally fighting mounted, lancers can dismount when necessary. On foot, they fight as armoured swordsmen, and make effective infantry.

{Dismounted_Byzantine_Lancers_descr_short}Well trained and disciplined troops and used throughout the Byzantine Empire, these Lancers are well armoured and equipped.

{Dismounted_Chivalric_Knights}Dismounted Chivalric Knights

{Dismounted_Chivalric_Knights_descr}True knights in shining armour, in principle at least, these men espouse the noble ideals of chivalry and honour. In reality they are brutally effective warriors who practice their skills daily in tournaments and mock fights. On the battlefield, their steel plate protection makes them hard to kill. Although most fight mounted, those that go on foot make powerful infantry.

{Dismounted_Chivalric_Knights_descr_short}Benefiting from improvements in arms and armour these elite warriors are still formidable, even when they choose to fight on foot.

{Dismounted_Christian_Guard}Dismounted Christian Guard

{Dismounted_Christian_Guard_descr}Being overthrown by their own palace guard is a risk faced by many rulers, and one way to prevent this is to hire guards from outside of their own cultures, who cannot hope to wield power themselves. Thus the Sultans of the Moors hire Christian Knights to protect them. Their prowess in battle is an added bonus.

{Dismounted_Christian_Guard_descr_short}Christians fighting for the Moors, these elite troops resemble the western knights of the time. 

{Dismounted_Conquistadores}Dismounted Conquistadores

{Dismounted_Conquistadores_descr}These men are the hardy pioneers that set out to conquer America. Although driven primarily by greed, they exhibit exceptional bravery, cunning and resilience. With their steel half plate armour, and razor sharp steel swords, these men are absolutely devastating against lesser troops. They can only be recruited in America.

{Dismounted_Conquistadores_descr_short}Well armoured and equipped with a sword, Conquistadors make superb heavy infantry capable of devastating attacks. 

{Dismounted_Crusader_Knights}Unhorsed Knights

{Dismounted_Crusader_Knights_descr}Many knights on crusade were forced to fight on foot, after losing their steeds in battle. Good horses were often hard to come by so far from home. Even without their mount, these well armed and equipped warriors, are formidable troops in any melee.

{Dismounted_Crusader_Knights_descr_short}Forced to fight on foot, after losing their steeds in battle. These knights are formidable fighters.

{Dismounted_Druchima}Dismounted Druzhina

{Dismounted_Druchima_descr}Druzhinas are a left-over from Viking times, and their ancestry is evident in the wicked axes they carry. They serve as the bodyguards for a leader or nobleman. Although most ride to battle, they are happy to fight on foot in the old Viking style.

{Dismounted_Druchima_descr_short}Fierce warriors wearing mail armour and armed with a wicked axe. Act as bodyguards for Chieftains.

{Dismounted_Dvor}Dismounted Dvor

{Dismounted_Dvor_descr}Dvors are troops in service to the local prince or Boyars of high standing. Dismounted they make excellent archers, well protected, effective at range, but able to look after themselves at close quarters if needed.

{Dismounted_Dvor_descr_short}In the service of the local Prince or high status Boyar, Dvor make excellent archers when dismounted.

{Dismounted_E_Chivalric_Knights}Dismounted Chivalric Knights

{Dismounted_E_Chivalric_Knights_descr}These nobles are trained since childhood in the art of war. They have exchanged traditional ways for the latest western techniques and equipment. Equipped with good plate armour, and armed with a sword, these elite warriors are a force to be reckoned with, even when fighting dismounted.

{Dismounted_E_Chivalric_Knights_descr_short}Elite heavy infantry influenced by western techniques, well armoured and well trained, but can act rashly.

{Dismounted_English_Knights}Dismounted English Knights

{Dismounted_English_Knights_descr}English knights generally preferred to fight on foot rather than mounted, as this allows them to protect their archers. With their fearsome poleaxes, they can crush enemy infantry and fend off any horseman, while their plate armour makes them hard to kill.

{Dismounted_English_Knights_descr_short}English knights often chose to fight dismounted. With their fearsome poleaxes, they can crush enemy infantry as well as cavalry.

{Dismounted_Feudal_Knights}Dismounted Feudal Knights

{Dismounted_Feudal_Knights_descr}Knights would often dismount and fight on foot when the situation demanded it. Dismounted they make excellent heavy infantry.

{Dismounted_Feudal_Knights_descr_short}Knights would often dismount and fight on foot when the situation demanded it. Dismounted they make excellent heavy infantry.

{Dismounted_Frankish_Knights}Dismounted Frankish Knights

{Dismounted_Frankish_Knights_descr}The term 'Frank' is a collective term used in medieval times for western Europeans. Many of these knights have turned war into a profitable career by becoming mercenaries. Well trained, and clad in heavy mail, when fighting on foot, they cut their lances down and use them as spears.

{Dismounted_Frankish_Knights_descr_short}These Feudal mercenary knights are powerful troops and invaluable for whomever can afford them.

{Dismounted_French_Archers}Dismounted French Archers

{Dismounted_French_Archers_descr}Professional soldiers of the French ordinance reforms, these men are modelled on the English style longbowmen. Their powerful bows give them punch, while their horses give them strategic mobility. They often enter battle dismounted as their bow is much more potent when used on foot. Well armed and armoured by the King.

{Dismounted_French_Archers_descr_short}Protected by brigandine armour, these archers have a horse to ride to battle on, but still fight on foot.

{Dismounted_Gothic_Knights}Dismounted Gothic Knights

{Dismounted_Gothic_Knights_descr}These distinctive looking knights are the Holy Roman Empire's elite warriors. Encased in splendid gothic plate armour, including the distinctive visored sallet helmet, these knights can take on anyone on the battlefield even when fighting dismounted.

{Dismounted_Gothic_Knights_descr_short}Impressive looking knights, well protected by armour and armed with a two-handed sword.

{Dismounted_Heavy_Archers}Dismounted Heavy Archers

{Dismounted_Heavy_Archers_descr}The main weapon of the Mongol army is the bow. These archers have chosen to fight on foot, making them no less dangerous. They have exchanged the mobility of light armour for the protection of heavy lamellar armour, allowing them to take a little more punishment from both ranged and melee weapons.

{Dismounted_Heavy_Archers_descr_short}Despite preferring to fight on horseback, these heavily armoured archers have dismounted to fight on foot.

{Dismounted_Heavy_Lancers}Dismounted Heavy Lancers

{Dismounted_Heavy_Lancers_descr}These elite shock troops have swapped mobility for heavier armour. Even dismounted, these supremely skilled warriors excel in armed combat and are armed with a spear, a mace known as a 'gulda' and armoured in a lamellar cuirass called a 'khuyad'.

{Dismounted_Heavy_Lancers_descr_short}Despite preferring to fight on horseback, these heavily armoured warriors have dismounted to fight on foot.

{Dismounted_Huscarls}Dismounted Huscarls

{Dismounted_Huscarls_descr}Literally meaning 'house man', Huscarls are the loyal household troops of Scandinavian nobles. Protected by mail armour and wielding axes, they resemble the Vikings of old, especially when they fight on foot. Brave and fierce, with their axes, mail and shields they make excellent infantry.

{Dismounted_Huscarls_descr_short}Protected by mail armour and wielding axes, these fearsome warriors are excellent killing machines.

{Dismounted_Imperial_Knights}Dismounted Imperial Knights

{Dismounted_Imperial_Knights_descr}True knights in shining armour, in principle at least, these men espouse the noble ideals of chivalry and honour. In reality they are brutally effective warriors who practice their skills daily in tournaments and mock fights. On the battlefield, their steel plate protection makes them hard to kill. Although most fight mounted, those that go on foot wield their maces with deadly effect.

{Dismounted_Imperial_Knights_descr_short}These mace wielding fighting machines wear plate armour, but prefer to fight on foot.

{Dismounted_Italian_MAA}Dismounted Men at Arms

{Dismounted_Italian_MAA_descr}Composed of nobility and commoners alike, these men can fight equally well on horseback, or on foot. Well protected in their plate armour, and armed with swords, they are a tough fighters, whether on the offence or defence. Although extremely effective, they nevertheless don't quite have the elan of true knights.

{Dismounted_Italian_MAA_descr_short}Dismounted, these men are effective and well protected infantry.

{Dismounted_Latinkon}Dismounted Latinkon

{Dismounted_Latinkon_descr}Latinkon is the collective term in Latin for western European troops, mostly mercenaries, in the Byzantine army. Despite fluctuating numbers, there are enough of them to warrant the position of Megas Konostabllos being created to oversee them. Wearing heavy armour these experienced and well trained fighters are armed with swords and are effective even when fighting on foot.

{Dismounted_Latinkon_descr_short}Western European troops fighting for the Byzantine Empire, these experienced fighters are effective even on foot.

{Dismounted_Light_Lancers}Dismounted Light Lancers

{Dismounted_Light_Lancers_descr}Mongol tribesmen learn to ride and hunt as soon as they can walk, with both skills used as training for war. Lightly armoured in leather and equipped with a hand weapon and a lance. Despite preferring to fight on horseback, these warriors have left their mounts behind to fight on foot, making them no less formidable.

{Dismounted_Light_Lancers_descr_short}Despite preferring to fight on horseback, these lightly armoured warriors have dismounted to fight on foot.

{Dismounted_Lithuanian_Cavalry}Dismounted Lithuanian Cavalry

{Dismounted_Lithuanian_Cavalry_descr}Recruited by Polish generals for their speed, and ferocity, Lithuanian light cavalry are armed with a bow and a sword. They are used to dismounting to fight on foot, since the marshes and forests of their native land often make mounted operations difficult. Their simple bows are a little on the weak side, but their spirit is not. They're happy to fight hand to hand, though they're not really well equipped for that role.

{Dismounted_Lithuanian_Cavalry_descr_short}Lithuanian archers are lightly armoured except for a large shield and are armed with a bow and a sword.

{Dismounted_Longbowmen}Retinue Longbowmen

{Dismounted_Longbowmen_descr}Many longbowmen sign a contract of indenture with a captain to become part of his retinue or company. The captain then hires out their services to the king. Such men are in effect professional soldiers, and highly skilled archers. They're well armoured and equipped and confident in their own abilities.

{Dismounted_Longbowmen_descr_short}Well armoured professional soldiers. Confident and deadly.

{Dismounted_Mercenary_German_Knights}Dismounted Mercenary German Knights

{Dismounted_Mercenary_German_Knights_descr}These are knights from the Holy Roman Empire that have chosen to fight for money. Wearing plate armour, and equipped with maces, those who choose to fight on foot, make tough infantry.

{Dismounted_Mercenary_German_Knights_descr_short}Protected by plate armour and equipped with maces these knights for hire excel at taking on heavily armoured units.

{Dismounted_Mercenary_Knights}Dismounted Mercenary Knights

{Dismounted_Mercenary_Knights_descr}Not all Knights owned land, nor did joining an order or being part of a lord's retinue suit all knights. Many choose to offer their expertise in warfare to whomever can afford them. These knights are armoured in plate mail and wield their swords to excellent effect when on foot.

{Dismounted_Mercenary_Knights_descr_short}These superb fighters can fight mounted or on foot and are well worth their fee.

{Dismounted_NE_Bodyguard}Bodyguard

{Dismounted_NE_Bodyguard_descr}These are truly formidable troops whose task it is to guard the army's general. Wearing plate armour and wielding swords, these elite troops fear little on the battlefield and make fearsome opponents. Loyal and disciplined this elite heavy infantry unit accompanies the general wherever he goes on the battlefield.

{Dismounted_NE_Bodyguard_descr_short}Well armed and equipped these elite troops have the task of guarding and fighting alongside the army's general.

{Dismounted_Noble_Knights}Dismounted Noble Knights

{Dismounted_Noble_Knights_descr}These men are the elite of the French aristocracy, and can to afford the best in arms and armour, not just for themselves, but also for their horses. As the flower of French chivalry, they have an elan that is unrivalled. Although they have a reputation for rashness when mounted, many are pragmatic enough to realise that sometimes it is better to fight on foot.

{Dismounted_Noble_Knights_descr_short}Made up from France's nobility, these elite warriors are as deadly on foot as when mounted.

{Dismounted_Norman_Knights}Dismounted Norman Knights

{Dismounted_Norman_Knights_descr}Of all the knights of Europe, the Normans are the most renowned. Their Viking heritage and lust for battle has lead many to seek their fortune abroad, especially in Southern Italy. Here two adventurers, Robert and Roger Guiscard have established a formidable kingdom which employs many of their countryman. The Norman Knight's exceptional ferocity, and heavy armour make him feared on any battlefield, even when fighting dismounted.

{Dismounted_Norman_Knights_descr_short}Exceptional knights, even when dismounted. Armed with swords and mail.

{Dismounted_Polish_Knights}Dismounted Polish Knights

{Dismounted_Polish_Knights_descr}Polish knights, "rycerz", are an example of the westernisation of Polish armies. These well trained and elite troops are well equipped with plate armour and swords. Although fighting on foot, they don't quite have the reputation they do mounted, they're nevertheless very effective.

{Dismounted_Polish_Knights_descr_short}Well trained, elite troops, and well equipped with plate armour and sword. Fighting on foot, these knights make capable heavy infantry.

{Dismounted_Polish_Nobles}Dismounted Polish Nobles

{Dismounted_Polish_Nobles_descr}As nobles, these men would of course ride to battle, but many would fight dismounted. With their light spears and mail, they are solid infantry, and useful for stiffening the commoners who comprise the rest of the footmen.

{Dismounted_Polish_Nobles_descr_short}Dismounted, they make solid infantry armed with light spears.

{Dismounted_Portuguese_Knights}Dismounted Portuguese Knights

{Dismounted_Portuguese_Knights_descr}Experienced in battle, thanks to the Reconquista, these elite knights are as happy fighting on foot as mounted. Their plate armour gives them excellent protection, while their poleaxes are effective against armoured and unarmoured foes alike.

{Dismounted_Portuguese_Knights_descr_short}Elite and experienced knights, protected by plate armour and armed with a poleaxe, who prefer to fight on foot.

{Dismounted_Sipahi_Lancers}Dismounted Sipahi Lancers

{Dismounted_Sipahi_Lancers_descr}Sipahis are feudal cavalry, holding land in exchange for military service. In western regions of the Ottoman empire especially, many Sipahis remained Christian. Lancers are drawn from the wealthier Sipahis who can afford the armour needed by close combat troops. Although more used to being mounted in battle, they can fight on foot as more than competent spearmen.

{Dismounted_Sipahi_Lancers_descr_short}Dismounted cavalry fighting on foot as competent armoured spearmen.

{Dismounted_Tuareg}Dismounted Tuareg

{Dismounted_Tuareg_descr}The Tuareg are fierce and independent camel-herding nomads from the Sahara. Tuareg men wear a distinctive blue or indigo veil that covers most of their face. These hardy spearmen are used to riding camels but will fight on foot when necessary.

{Dismounted_Tuareg_descr_short}Fierce and independent nomads armed with a spear but little or no armour.

{Druzhina}Druzhina

{Druzhina_descr}Druzhinas are a left over from Viking times, and their ancestry is evident in the wicked axes they carry. They serve as the bodyguards for a leader or nobleman. However, 'Druzhinniks' are free to leave and join other Druzhinas if they wish to. On the battlefield they fight as effective heavy cavalry. 

{Druzhina_descr_short}Fierce cavalry warriors wearing mail armour and armed with spear and a wicked axe, acting as bodyguards for Chieftains.

{Duke_William}Duke William

{Duke_William_descr}Duke William of Normandy, and his bodyguard of hand-picked knights.

{Duke_William_descr_short}Duke William and his bodyguard.

{Dvor_Cavalry}Dvor Cavalry

{Dvor_Cavalry_descr}Dvor are the household troops of Russian noblemen and princes. Their bows and strong armour allow them to outshoot Asiatic horse archers, but they are equally ready to mix it up at close quarters. This versatility, coupled with good morale make them enormously valuable troops.

{Dvor_Cavalry_descr_short}In the service of the local Prince or high status Boyar, Dvors are amongst the best missile cavalry available.

{EE_Archer_Militia}Archer Militia

{EE_Archer_Militia_descr}Archer Militia are bow-equipped peasants or poorer townsfolk called upon to provide a settlement with a garrison of missile troops. Whilst poorly armoured, these troops are only expected to shoot at an enemy from the safety of their own walls. 

{EE_Archer_Militia_descr_short}Archer Militia are armed with a small bow, knife and if lucky enough, some armour.

{EE_Ballista}Ballista

{EE_Ballista_descr}These artillery pieces resemble giant crossbows, on a simple wheeled carriage. They can hurl javelins with great accuracy, and the power of these machines means that their bolts can pierce any armour. 

{EE_Ballista_descr_short}Resembling a giant crossbow, this powerful weapon can fling a javelin to a great range, skewering men with ease.

{EE_Basilisk}Basilisk

{EE_Basilisk_descr}This fearsome artillery piece is the pinnacle of late Medieval siege-gun engineering. With greater range, damage and accuracy than all the siege guns that come before it, no enemy emplacements can stand up to its fearsome bombardment, nor can enemy troops withstand its explosive shots. Generals should fear the gaze of the Basilisk! 

{EE_Basilisk_descr_short}Very powerful cannon with great range, damage and accuracy. Punishing against defences and units. Can fire solid or explosive shots.

{EE_Bodyguard}General's Bodyguard

{EE_Bodyguard_descr}These are truly formidable troops whose task it is to guard the army's general. Experienced and hardy, this elite unit fights with a spear, as is common in Eastern Europe. They are well protected by heavy mail or early plate armour. Fiercely loyal and disciplined, there is little this unit cannot take on.

{EE_Bodyguard_descr_short}These warriors are the general's personal guard, fiercely loyal, there is little this unit cannot take on.

{EE_Bombard}Bombard

{EE_Bombard_descr}The first primitive gunpowder siege artillery, bombards were created in China and Western Europe in the early 14th century and spread to the rest of the world by the late 14th century. They are forged from bronze or iron, and designed to fire stone balls that crumble enemy defences. They also shoot inaccurate flaming balls wrapped in pitch-soaked rags, that can incinerate enemy troops!

{EE_Bombard_descr_short}Primitive siege-gun forged of bronze or iron, can shoot solid stone or flaming shot. Inaccurate versus units.

{EE_Cannon}Cannon

{EE_Cannon_descr}The archetypical cannon was used all across the world by the mid to late 15th century. Mounted on a large wheeled chassis and featuring a longer improved barrel, the cannon is far superior to the bombards that preceded it. Able to demolish enemy walls from a greater range and able to fire troop-killing explosive shells, the cannon is rightly feared.

{EE_Cannon_descr_short}The typical 'cannon' is powerful and good against both units and defences. Capable of firing solid and explosive shots.

{EE_Catapult}Catapult

{EE_Catapult_descr}Constructed of wood and capable of flinging stones large enough to crush a man's head, the catapult was a common site on the ancient Roman battlefield. Now in the medieval era, the catapult is being replaced by newer and more powerful weapons.

{EE_Catapult_descr_short}Older style rock-flinging wooden artillery piece. Can throw flaming and normal shots.

{EE_Cavalry_Militia}Cavalry Militia

{EE_Cavalry_Militia_descr}In the wide spaces of eastern Europe, towns needed to be able to defend themselves against raids by Turkish or Tartar horsemen. These militia are able to drive off nomadic horse archers, and deal with other light troops, but being poorly trained and equipped, they should not be relied on against quality soldiers.

{EE_Cavalry_Militia_descr_short}Cavalry militia are poorly trained and equipped, but are still capable of charging down the right enemy

{EE_Crossbow_Militia}Crossbow Militia

{EE_Crossbow_Militia_descr}Crossbow militia are inexpensive units formed to protect settlements. Being able to train townsfolk quickly in the use of the crossbow allows these units to be garrisoned frequently and the stopping power of the crossbow can make their withering fire lethal. Poorly armoured, it is just as well crossbow militia are expected to hide behind defensive walls.

{EE_Crossbow_Militia_descr_short}Crossbow Militia are peasant crossbowmen called up to defend settlements. Very poorly armoured.

{EE_Grand_Bombard}Grand Bombard

{EE_Grand_Bombard_descr}The Grand Bombard was created as an improvement to the bombard in the early 15th century. Made to be harder-hitting and with longer range than its predecessor, this iron-forged piece of siege artillery is able to inflict punishing damage on enemy defences. Like its predecessor, it too can deliver flaming chastisement to enemy troops.

{EE_Grand_Bombard_descr_short}The Grand Bombard has increased range, damage and accuracy compared to the bombard.

{EE_Late_Bodyguard}General's Bodyguard

{EE_Late_Bodyguard_descr}Influenced by western tactics, this formidable unit makes up the general's personal bodyguard and resolutely fights alongside their leader. The combination of heavy Asiatic style armour, a fully armoured horse and a lance make these elite warriors mobile killing machines. 

{EE_Late_Bodyguard_descr_short}The combination of heavy armour, a fully armoured horse and a lance make these elite warriors mobile killing machines. 

{EE_Peasant_Archers}Peasant Archers

{EE_Peasant_Archers_descr}Peasant Archers are accustomed to using their bow for hunting. These peasant archers are armed with a small bow, and a knife. Life at the bottom of medieval society is neither easy or healthy, these units have either been levied straight into the army, or have volunteered to try and gain a better life. They're only moderately effective as archers, and should not be relied upon.

{EE_Peasant_Archers_descr_short}A peasant archer is armed with a small bow and knife. Not to be relied upon.

{EE_Peasants}Peasants

{EE_Peasants_descr}Life at the bottom rung of medieval society is not easy or healthy. In times of war peasants are forced from their farms and drafted into levies, and if they are lucky, given some kind of simple weapon to fight with. Unsurprisingly, peasants are undisciplined troops who are better at fleeing than they are fighting. 

{EE_Peasants_descr_short}In times of war peasants are forced from their farms and drafted into levies. Good cannon fodder.

{EE_Ribault}Ribault

{EE_Ribault_descr}The Ribault, also known as the organ gun due to its many pipes, is a fearsome spectacle on the battlefield. Armed with nine short-ranged barrels, it is often used in the defence of other longer-ranged artillery. Able to fire all nine barrels at once, it makes the enemy think twice before engaging!

{EE_Ribault_descr_short}A small multi-barrel wagon mounted cannon. A good defensive tool able to fire in a nine-barrel barrage.

{EE_Serpentine}Serpentine

{EE_Serpentine_descr}The serpentine is so named, because its long slender barrel resembles a snake. This piece is designed for attacking enemy troops, rather than walls. Its long thin barrel gives it good range and accuracy, and its small calibre ammunition makes it quicker to reload than heavier pieces.

{EE_Serpentine_descr_short}Light cannon designed for use against troops rather than walls.

{EE_Spear_Militia}Spear Militia

{EE_Spear_Militia_descr}Common throughout Europe, Spear Militia are commoners and peasants who have been levied into local militias to defend towns, roads and bolster armies. Given some training and equipped with a long spear and shield, these units are useful in support roles for heavier and better units.

{EE_Spear_Militia_descr_short}Spear Militia are commoners and peasants levied into local militias to defend settlements and bolster armies, armed with long spears.

{EE_Spearmen}Spearmen

{EE_Spearmen_descr}Composed of freemen too poor to afford a horse for the cavalry, this unit is armed with a spear and reasonable armour. Better trained and disciplined than peasant militias, these spearmen are capable of forming a defensive ring of spears, which is particularly effective against cavalry.

{EE_Spearmen_descr_short}Regular troops comprised of freemen, equipped with some armour and a spear, able to form a defensive ring of spears.

{EE_Town_Militia}Town Militia

{EE_Town_Militia_descr}These men are commoners and peasants who have been levied into local militias to defend towns, roads and bolster armies. Given some training and equipped with a short spear and shield, though little armour, these units are useful in defence, but cannot be expected to endure for long on an open battlefield.

{EE_Town_Militia_descr_short}Town Militia are commoners and peasants levied into local militias to defend settlements and bolster armies, armed with spears.

{EE_Trebuchet}Trebuchet

{EE_Trebuchet_descr}The counter-weight Trebuchet is an evolution of the man-powered mangonel and catapults dating back before the 11th century. It has quickly spread throughout the world as an effective siege engine capable of lobbing large wall- crushing boulders. The Trebuchet is also able to fling such things as burning missiles and rotten animal remains to devastate enemy units.

{EE_Trebuchet_descr_short}Giant rock flinging artillery piece. Capable of flaming and normal shot. Also able to fling diseased cows!

{E_Chivalric_Knights}Chivalric Knights

{E_Chivalric_Knights_descr}These nobles are trained since childhood in the art of war. They have abandoned traditional ways, and adopted the latest western techniques and equipment. Equipped with good plate armour, and armed with lance and sword, these elite warriors are a force to be reckoned with, despite their tendency to act impetuously in battle. 

{E_Chivalric_Knights_descr_short}Elite cavalry influenced by western techniques, this heavy cavalry is a force to be reckoned with.

{Eagle_Warriors}Eagle Warriors

{Eagle_Warriors_descr}After capturing four enemies in combat, these fearsome warriors are entitled to wear outfits bedecked in feathers to resemble a bird, with an open-faced helmet that is a representation of an eagle’s head. They are equipped with ichcahuipilli armour, and wield their obsidian-edged maquahuitl clubs two-handed.

{Eagle_Warriors_descr_short}Fearsome warriors garbed in an outfit to resemble an eagle. Armoured with ichcahuipilli, and wielding maquahuitl clubs two-handed.

{Elephant_Artillery}Elephant Artillery

{Elephant_Artillery_Mercs}Elephant Artillery

{Elephant_Artillery_Mercs_descr}These fearsome beasts have small cannons, comparable to serpentines, mounted on their backs. Elephants are capable of trampling men and horses into the dust, and if the elephant goes berserk that includes friendly troops as well. In such an event, the riders are equipped with a special hammer and chisel they can use on their mount's head to kill it. 

{Elephant_Artillery_Mercs_descr_short}These fearsome beasts have small cannons, comparable to serpentines, mounted on their backs.

{Elephant_Artillery_descr}These fearsome beasts have small cannons, comparable to serpentines, mounted on their backs. Elephants are capable of trampling men and horses into the dust, and if the elephant goes berserk, that includes friendly troops as well. In such an event, the riders are equipped with a special hammer and chisel they can use on their mount's head to kill it. 

{Elephant_Artillery_descr_short}These fearsome beasts have small cannons, comparable to serpentines, mounted on their backs.

{Elephant_Rocketeer}Elephant Rocketeer

{Elephant_Rocketeer_descr}Placing two such weapons of rampant destruction, the Elephant and rockets together can only be the work of a soon to be hated madman! What the rockets don’t burn, the elephant surely will pulverise under its titanic feet.

{Elephant_Rocketeer_descr_short}Rockets on Elephants? Madness!

{Elephants}Elephants

{Elephants_Mercs}Elephants

{Elephants_Mercs_descr}Armed with deadly arquebuses these riders fire from atop these fearsome beasts, which can trample men and horses into the dust. Elephants occasionally go berserk in battle, trampling over friend and foe alike, therefore their riders have a special hammer and chisel they can use on their mount's head to kill it should they need to.

{Elephants_Mercs_descr_short}Armed with deadly arquebuses these riders fire from atop these fearsome beasts, which can trample men into the dust.

{Elephants_descr}Armed with deadly arquebuses these riders fire from atop these fearsome beasts, which can trample men and horses into the dust. Elephants occasionally go berserk in battle, trampling over friend and foe alike, therefore their riders have a special hammer and chisel they can use on their mount's head to kill it should they need to.

{Elephants_descr_short}Armed with deadly arquebuses these riders fire from atop these fearsome beasts, which can trample men into the dust.

{English_Huscarls}Huscarls

{English_Huscarls_descr}These Axe-wielding Saxons are an elite body of professional troops loyal to the Saxon royal family. Armed with a two-handed axe and mail they present stiff opposition to all who would invade England.

{English_Huscarls_descr_short}Formidable Saxon warriors armed with two-handed axes and protected by mail armour.

{English_Knights}English Knights

{English_Knights_descr}True knights in shining armour, in principle at least, these men espouse the noble ideals of chivalry and honour. In reality they are brutally effective warriors who practice their skills daily in tournaments and mock fights. On the battlefield, their steel plate protection makes them hard to kill, and their charge is effective, although lacking the wild abandon of their contempories on the mainland.

{English_Knights_descr_short}Elite warriors clad in steel plate armour, these men pack an effective charge, while being hard to kill.

{Famiglia_Ducale}Famiglia Ducale

{Famiglia_Ducale_descr}Famiglia Ducale are quite literally the family, and retinue of the Duke. Drawn from the nobility, these units are well equipped and practiced in the art of war. Armoured in plate and wielding lances and swords these units are determined to defend their lord's honour and fight for his interests, whatever they are.

{Famiglia_Ducale_descr_short}Armoured in plate and wielding lances, these elite knights defend the Duke's honour.

{Feudal_Knights}Feudal Knights

{Feudal_Knights_descr}These knights dominate both society and the battlefield in medieval Europe. Under the feudal system each man owes military service to his lord in return for protection, a grant of land, and the peasants to work it. Trained as warriors from birth, their favourite tactic is the headlong charge. Despite the simple tactics, their strong armour, heavy lances, and martial prowess mean that only the most resolute can resist them

{Feudal_Knights_descr_short}Protected by heavy armour and armed with a lance, these elite warriors crush and ride down their opponents.

{Flagellants}Flagellants

{Flagellants_descr}Flagellants are men who either through religious fanaticism, guilt over unspeakable acts or after suffering one too many tragedies have turned to an informal religious movement that practices self-mortification, most commonly through whipping. These tortured and deranged souls have banded together to go on crusade, armed with fanaticism, stern self discipline and a simple handweapon such as a mace.

{Flagellants_descr_short}Religious fanatics into self-mortification who have banded together to travel to the Holy Lands, armed with a mace.

{Flemish_Pikemen}Flemish Pikemen

{Flemish_Pikemen_Mercs}Flemish Pikemen

{Flemish_Pikemen_Mercs_descr}Hailing from Flanders, these mercenaries are armed with pikes, which were adopted early in this region of Europe. Wearing light armour, they are capable of presenting a defensive wall made up of rows of steel pikes waiting to impale charging foes.

{Flemish_Pikemen_Mercs_descr_short}Hailing from Flanders, these mercenaries are armed with pikes and wear light armour. 

{Flemish_Pikemen_descr}Hailing from Flanders, these mercenaries are armed with pikes, which were adopted early in this region of Europe. Wearing light armour, they are capable of presenting a defensive wall made up of rows of steel pikes waiting to impale charging foes.

{Flemish_Pikemen_descr_short}Hailing from Flanders, these mercenaries are armed with pikes and wear light armour. 

{Forlorn_Hope}Forlorn Hope

{Forlorn_Hope_descr}The 'Verlorene Haufe' or Forlorn Hope as they are known, are comprised of prisoners and volunteers desperate for glory. Their job is to lead the first and usually fatal charge used to break up enemy pike formations. The Forlorn Hope are heavily armoured and wield massive "zweihander" swords. These units are vicious assault troops who can chop a man into bloody pieces.

{Forlorn_Hope_descr_short}These desperate men are armed with a massive two-handed sword and thick armour.

{Free_Company_Longbowmen}Free Company Longbowmen

{Free_Company_Longbowmen_descr}These longbowmen are mercenaries of English origin. Willing to sell themselves and their skills to the highest bidder, they provide an opportunity to bolster an army that is weak in missile troops. Protected with light mail and a sword, they prefer to stay out of melee if they can. Like other longbowmen they can lay defensive stakes.

{Free_Company_Longbowmen_descr_short}Mercenary Longbowmen armoured with light mail. Able to lay defensive stakes.

{Free_Company_Men_at_Arms}Free Company Men at Arms

{Free_Company_Men_at_Arms_descr}Armies are expensive to maintain, so when peace falls, Kings dispense with the services of many of their soldiers. Some however, enjoy the military life and form themselves into large bands often known as 'free companies'. Often supporting themselves by brigandage, they are equally happy to sell their services to anyone who can pay. These men are well armoured and armed with poleaxes.

{Free_Company_Men_at_Arms_descr_short}Effective mercenary bands equipped with poleaxes and plate armour.

{French_Mounted_Archers}French Mounted Archers

{French_Mounted_Archers_descr}Professional soldiers of the French ordinance reforms, these men are modelled on the English style longbowmen. Their powerful bows give them punch, while there horses give them mobility. They're well armed and armoured by the king.

{French_Mounted_Archers_descr_short}Professional soldiers equipped with longbows in the English style, and mounted on horses for mobility

{GR_Ballista}Ballista

{GR_Ballista_descr}These artillery pieces resemble giant crossbows, on a simple wheeled carriage. They can hurl javelins with great accuracy, and the power of these machines means that their bolts can pierce any armour. 

{GR_Ballista_descr_short}Resembling a giant crossbow, this powerful weapon can fling a javelin to a great range, skewering men with ease.

{GR_Bombard}Bombard

{GR_Bombard_descr}The first primitive gunpowder siege artillery, bombards were created in China and Western Europe in the early 14th century and spread to the rest of the world by the late 14th century. They are forged from bronze or iron, and designed to fire stone balls that crumble enemy defences. They also shoot inaccurate flaming balls wrapped in pitch-soaked rags, that can incinerate enemy troops!

{GR_Bombard_descr_short}Primitive siege-gun forged of bronze or iron, can shoot solid stone or flaming shot. Inaccurate versus units.

{GR_Catapult}Catapult

{GR_Catapult_descr}Constructed of wood and capable of flinging stones large enough to crush a man's head, the catapult was a common site on the ancient Roman battlefield. Now in the medieval era, the catapult is being replaced by newer and more powerful weapons.

{GR_Catapult_descr_short}Older style rock-flinging wooden artillery piece. Can throw flaming and normal shots.

{GR_Trebuchet}Trebuchet

{GR_Trebuchet_descr}The counter-weight Trebuchet is an evolution of the man-powered mangonel and catapults dating back before the 11th century. It has quickly spread throughout the world as an effective siege engine capable of lobbing large wall- crushing boulders. The Trebuchet is also able to fling such things as burning missiles and rotten animal remains to devastate enemy units.

{GR_Trebuchet_descr_short}Giant rock flinging artillery piece. Capable of flaming and normal shot. Also able to fling diseased cows!

{Galloglaich}Galloglaich

{Galloglaich_Mercs}Galloglaich

{Galloglaich_Mercs_descr}Galloglaich are fierce warriors originally from the western seaboard of Scotland, who fled to Ireland and found employment there. Originally paid in beef and later land for service to Ireland's Kings, these fierce warriors are formidable fighters armed with large two-handed axes and wearing light armour. 

{Galloglaich_Mercs_descr_short}Fierce Scottish warriors who have settled in Ireland. Formidable troops armed with large two-handed axes and wearing light armour.

{Galloglaich_descr}Galloglaich are fierce warriors originally from the western seaboard of Scotland who fled to Ireland and found employment there. Originally paid in beef and later land for service to Ireland's Kings, these fierce warriors are formidable fighters armed with large two-handed axes and wearing light armour. 

{Galloglaich_descr_short}Fierce Scottish warriors who have settled in Ireland. Formidable troops armed with large two-handed axes and wearing light armour.

{Gendarmes}Gendarmes

{Gendarmes_descr}Although drawn from the nobility, and equipped as heavy knights, these men are well trained and disciplined professional soldiers. They provide their sovereign with a standing force that's available when needed, and much less trouble than the turbulent aristocracy of old. Expensive to maintain, though, only the wealthiest states can afford them.

{Gendarmes_descr_short}Superb well armoured professional heavy cavalry armed with a lance.

{Genoese_Crossbow_Militia}Genoese Crossbow Militia

{Genoese_Crossbow_Militia_descr}Italians are world renowned for their love of the crossbow, none more so then the Genoese. These wealthy militia are equipped with brigandine armour, a large Pavise style shield, and a sword. A certain number of militia units can be supported for free in a city.

{Genoese_Crossbow_Militia_descr_short}Superior Italian crossbow garrison unit armoured with brigandine and a pavise.

{Genoese_Crossbowmen}Genoese Crossbowmen

{Genoese_Crossbowmen_descr}Italians are world renowned for their love of the crossbow, none more so then the Genoese. Genoese commanders value their crossbowmen highly, thus they equip them with brigandine armour and the large Pavise style shield. For use in melee Genoese Crossbowmen are also equipped with a long sword.

{Genoese_Crossbowmen_descr_short}Superior Italian crossbow unit armoured with brigandine and a pavise.

{Ghazis}Ghazis

{Ghazis_descr}Ghazis are wild religious warriors seeking to find paradise through combat. Armed with a large axe and fiery fanaticism, these troops recklessly throw themselves into combat no matter the odds, caring little about their general's orders. Armed with a one-handed axe, these troops will try to hack and slash their way through anything.

{Ghazis_descr_short}Reckless and fanatical religious warriors armed with an axe, capable of devastating attacks.

{Gothic_Knights}Gothic Knights

{Gothic_Knights_descr}These distinctive looking knights are the Holy Roman Empire's elite warriors. Their armour is in the distinctive fluted gothic style produced by the finest German armourers, and include the popular visored sallet helmet. Riding an armoured warhorse and wielding a lance and mace, Gothic knights have little to fear on the battlefield. Well practiced in heavy cavalry tactics these knights make a fearsome addition to any Imperial army.

{Gothic_Knights_descr_short}Impressive looking heavy cavalry, well protected by armour for both rider and mount. Equipped with lance and mace.

{Granadine_CB_Cav}Granadine Crossbow Cavalry

{Granadine_CB_Cav_descr}The crossbow is a favourite weapon of the men of Granada, being both easy to use, and effective against the armour of their Christian foes. These units combine it with the Eastern tradition of mobile warfare. Their mobility allows them to stay out of trouble while they reload.

{Granadine_CB_Cav_descr_short}These troops combine the crossbow, favoured by Granadine troops, with the Eastern tradition of mobile warfare.

{Granadine_Jinetes}Granadine Jinetes

{Granadine_Jinetes_descr}Descendants of Moors who settled in Iberia. These lightly armoured skirmishers are capable of forming a circle formation that provides constant fire against the enemy. They use their speed to stay out of harm's way until they can hurl their javelins, then close in when the enemy is sufficiently weakened.

{Granadine_Jinetes_descr_short}Lightly armoured skirmishers, armed with a javelin, and capable of forming a circle formation providing constant fire against the enemy.

{Granadine_Lancers}Granadine Lancers

{Granadine_Lancers_descr}These are close fighting heavy cavalry recruited from the Moors of southern Spain. Their equipment and fighting style has been influenced by their Christian foes, as they emphasise heavy armour and shock tactics more than the light cavalry tactics of their forebears.

{Granadine_Lancers_descr_short}Recruited in Moorish Iberia, these troops are trained and well equipped heavy cavalry, capable of deadly charges.

{Grand_Master_Ulrich}Grand Master Ulrich

{Grand_Master_Ulrich_descr}Grand Master Ulrich and his bodyguard.

{Grand_Master_Ulrich_descr_short}Grand Master Ulrich and his bodyguard.

{Great_Cross}Great Cross

{Great_Cross_descr}The Great Cross sits on a wagon, and acts as a beacon of inspiration to the army, and a reminder that they are on God's mission. The cross is guarded by an elite unit of infantry, who would rather die than let it fall into enemy hands. This unit can only be used by crusading armies.

{Great_Cross_descr_short}Golden cross to inspire the troops, and remind them that they are on God's mission.

{Greek_Bodyguard}General's Bodyguard

{Greek_Bodyguard_descr}These truly formidable troops are the general's personal bodyguard who accompany him on the battlefield. Selected for their loyalty and martial prowess these elite warriors fear little and shrug off odds that would crush many other units. Wearing heavy mail or partial plate and wielding lances this unit is capable of devastating charges and riding down most foes.

{Greek_Bodyguard_descr_short}Well armed and equipped these elite troops have the task of guarding and fighting alongside the army's general.

{Greek_Militia_Cavalry}Militia Cavalry

{Greek_Militia_Cavalry_descr}Used throughout the Byzantine Empire to protect merchants, provincial towns and roads, Militia Cavalry are armoured in light mail and equipped with a spear. Though poorly trained, these men are good at chasing down archers and other light troops.

{Greek_Militia_Cavalry_descr_short}Poorly trained, these units fight with a spear and sword.

{Gulay_Gorod}Gulay Gorod

{Gulay_Gorod_descr}Used by the Russians, the Gulay Gorod, meaning 'galloping fortress' is a group of wagons which have been reinforced where possible, and are accompanied by hardened well trained troops armed with crossbows and wearing light armour. Used defensively these wagons are formed into a circle creating an effective barricade from which troops can fire upon the enemy in relative safety.

{Gulay_Gorod_descr_short}Wagons that can be formed into a circular barricade, behind from which the troops armed with crossbows can fire.

{Halberd_Militia}Halberd Militia

{Halberd_Militia_descr}Trained and equipped to fight with long halberds, these troops can fend off cavalry and crush many kinds of enemies depending on what part of the halberd they hit them with. Reasonably trained, though not exceptionally brave. These units are initially unarmoured, but can be upgraded substantially.

{Halberd_Militia_descr_short}Militia units armed with a halberd which can fend off cavalry, and pierce or crush armour.

{Hand_Gunners}Hand Gunners

{Hand_Gunners_descr}Called "hand guns" to distinguish them from cannons, these are the earliest form of personal firearm. Consisting of a rudimentary metal tube mounted on a wooden pole and awkwardly ignited, this basic design left little room for aiming. These weapons caused more panic than actual damage to enemy troops who were shaken by the noise and smoke made when firing. Given their short range, their firers need to be well armoured and able to look after themselves in close combat.

{Hand_Gunners_descr_short}Earliest hand-held firearm unit. Causes more fear than actual damage. These soldiers need to be capable in close combat due to the short range of their weapons.

{Hashishim}Hashashim

{Hashishim_descr}The Hashashim are a semi-religious sect of assassins dedicated to stealth, and murder, thought to have originated somewhere in Persia. Highly disciplined and trained, these troops fear little and are masters of ambushes. On the battlefield they fight with sword and shield, as opposed to the daggers of their trade. Having no fear of death makes these men especially deadly.

{Hashishim_descr_short}The Hashashim are a semi-religious sect of stealthy assassins. On the battlefield they fight with sword and shield. 

{Heavy_Bill_Militia}Heavy Bill Militia

{Heavy_Bill_Militia_descr}These are citizen soldiers from the more affluent sections of society, called up to fight in times of need. Although part time soldiers, they are well armoured, and have some training in war. Couple this their effective and versatile bill hook, and you have a capable unit that can hold the line of battle. 

{Heavy_Bill_Militia_descr_short}Superior Bill militia, armed with a billhook and heavy armour.

{Heavy_Billmen}Heavy Billmen

{Heavy_Billmen_descr}The pinnacle of English commoner infantry, the Heavy Billman is equally comfortable in both attack and defence. Wielding the billhook allows Heavy Billmen to hack, stab and chop if needed and being encased in anything from half to three quarter plate armour means they can shrug off considerable damage.

{Heavy_Billmen_descr_short}Heavily armoured versatile infantry wielding the billhook.

{Heavy_Pike_Militia}Heavy Pike Militia

{Heavy_Pike_Militia_descr}Heavy Pike Militia are commoners of the wealthier sort who've been levied into local militias to defend their settlement or bulk up field armies. Given some training, equipped with a pike and heavy armour, these troops are one of the toughest militia units available. Able to present rows of sharp points to charging cavalry, this unit can take punishment and dish it out.

{Heavy_Pike_Militia_descr_short}Levied troops equipped with pikes and protected by heavy armour. Good defence against cavalry.

{Hernan_Cortes}Hernán Cortés

{Hernan_Cortes_descr}Hernán Cortés and his bodyguard.

{Hernan_Cortes_descr_short}Hernán Cortés and his bodyguard.

{Highland_Archers}Highland Archers

{Highland_Archers_descr}Whilst not having a strong tradition of archery like their southern neighbours, Scottish commanders recognise the importance of archers in battle. Drawn from the highlands these archers are armed with a standard bow and a one-handed axe for melee and if lucky enough some form of padded armour.

{Highland_Archers_descr_short}Archers from the highlands armed with a standard bow and a one-handed axe for melee.

{Highland_Nobles}Highland Nobles

{Highland_Nobles_descr}These are the clan leaders and their kinsfolk from the highlands and isles of Scotland. Although their mail armour and helmets are better than the common folk can aspire to, their equipment is scarcely comparable to that of the nobility from more prosperous lands further south. Nevertheless, their fighting spirit and vicious two handed swords mean that they command respect on the battlefield.

{Highland_Nobles_descr_short}Scottish shock troops wielding a large two-handed sword and armoured in chain.

{Highland_Pikemen}Highland Pikemen

{Highland_Pikemen_descr}Since Scottish armies cannot field cavalry to match the English knights, they have found other ways to neutralise this threat, such as rows of brave men with long steel pointed sticks. These well trained, although sometimes reckless clansmen are armed with pikes, allowing them to present English knights with a wall of pointy death.

{Highland_Pikemen_descr_short}Well trained, but sometimes reckless clansmen armed with pikes, able to form a wall of pikes against cavalry.

{Highland_Rabble}Highland Rabble

{Highland_Rabble_descr}Life at the bottom rung of medieval society is neither easy or healthy, as these hardy and fierce peasants from the Highlands know only to well. This motley rabble is armed with whatever they can get their hands on and a mug full of bravery. Ill-disciplined and enthusiastic, these peasants are the ideal cannon fodder.

{Highland_Rabble_descr_short}Ill disciplined and fierce peasants from the Highlands armed with a basic hand weapon.

{Highlanders}Highlanders

{Highlanders_descr}Fierce and wild warriors from the Scottish Highlands. These hardy and reckless warriors, accustomed to in-fighting and raiding for loot and slaves, fight with little to no armour, a shield and are equipped with an axe. Notoriously ill disciplined these warriors can pack a punch but are no match for disciplined and armoured units in formation.

{Highlanders_descr_short}Fierce and wild warriors from the Scottish Highlands fight with little to no armour and are equipped with an axe.

{Hobilars}Hobilars

{Hobilars_descr}It is thought the term 'Hobilars' comes from the Norman name 'hobby' for the small horses that Gaelic troops rode in Scotland and Ireland. In medieval warfare Hobilars are the lighter cavalry who support the knights. They shouldn't be relied on too far in battle, but can be valuable for chasing down fleeing enemy.

{Hobilars_descr_short}Light cavalry with spears. Useful for chasing down light infantry, and pursuing fleeing enemy

{Hungarian_Nobles}Hungarian Nobles

{Hungarian_Nobles_descr}Unable to afford the expensive heavy armour of a western style knight, many nobles stick to their nomadic roots as heavy horse archers. Their light mail or brigandine armour gives them adequate protection while firing their bows, and their aristocratic upbringing gives them the stomach for close combat if required.

{Hungarian_Nobles_descr_short}Well equipped with light armour and composite bows, these warriors are good horse archers who are also capable in close combat.

{Huscarls}Huscarls

{Huscarls_descr}Literally meaning 'house man', Huscarls are the loyal household troops of Scandinavian nobles. Protected by mail armour and wielding axes, they resemble the Vikings of old. However, they have abandoned the ancient ways of fighting on foot, and now fight from horseback as do their peers in the rest of Europe. Though brave and fierce, they can not yet match the horsemanship of nations more accustomed to the saddle.

{Huscarls_descr_short}Protected by mail armour and wielding axes, these fearsome warriors are effective cavalry.

{Hussars}Hussars

{Hussars_descr}The first Hussars are thought to have been Serbian nobles seeking refuge in Hungary. The tradition of hit and run tactics of the Hussars found a fertile home in Hungary where they became influenced by the Magyars and the Uyghur Turks. Very fast, these elite lancers are equipped with light mail or brigandine armour and armed with lance and sword.

{Hussars_descr_short}Renown for their fast hit and run tactics, Hussars are equipped with light mail, shield, lance and sword.

{Hussites}Hussites

{Hussites_descr}The Hussites began as a religious and political uprising by peasants in Bohemia. These battle hardened elite troops are armed with crossbows, but can put up a good hand to hand fight as well.

{Hussites_descr_short}Powerful unit of religious rebels, armed with crossbows and light armour.

{Imperial_Knights}Imperial Knights

{Imperial_Knights_descr}True knights in shining armour, in principle at least, these men espouse the noble ideals of chivalry and honour. In reality they are brutally effective warriors who practice their skills daily in tournaments and mock fights. On the battlefield, their steel plate protection makes them hard to kill. After the charging in with their lances, they engage in close combat with heavy maces that can knock a man senseless, when a sword blow would glance off his armour.

{Imperial_Knights_descr_short}These mace-wielding fighting machines wear plate armour and are equipped with lances for a deadly charge. 

{Irish_Kerns}Irish Kerns

{Irish_Kerns_Mercs}Irish Kerns

{Irish_Kerns_Mercs_descr}Kerns are Irish light Infantry made up of freemen armed with a javelin and small handweapon. Relying on agility rather than armour these light skirmishers hurl their javelin at their foes, whilst keeping out of combat with more heavily armoured opponents. Many Kerns seek an escape from poverty by fighting as mercenaries.

{Irish_Kerns_Mercs_descr_short}Skirmishing unarmoured Irish warriors armed with javelins and handweapon, willing to fight for whomever can pay them.

{Irish_Kerns_descr}Kerns are Irish light Infantry made up of freemen armed with a javelin and small handweapon. Relying on agility rather than armour these light skirmishers hurl their javelin at their foes, whilst keeping out of combat with more heavily armoured opponents. Many Kerns seek an escape from poverty by fighting as mercenaries.

{Irish_Kerns_descr_short}Skirmishing unarmoured Irish warriors armed with javelins and handweapon, willing to fight for whomever can pay them.

{Italian_Cavalry_Militia}Cavalry Militia

{Italian_Cavalry_Militia_descr}Wealthy Italian cities have many men capable of equipping themselves as heavy cavalry, and turning out as militia in time of need. Well equipped, they might be mistaken for knights, but while effective against other militias, no part-time soldier can match the skill of men trained from birth.

{Italian_Cavalry_Militia_descr_short}Encased in mail and equipped with lances and swords these troops are effective fighters.

{Italian_MAA}Men At Arms

{Italian_MAA_descr}Composed of nobility and commoners alike, these men make up a powerful unit of heavy cavalry. Well protected in their plate armour, and armed with a lance and sword, they pack a powerful charge on the battlefield, while being difficult to kill. Although extremely effective, they don't quite have the elan of true knights.

{Italian_MAA_descr_short}Well equipped heavy cavalry with plate armour and a lance.

{Italian_Militia}Italian Militia

{Italian_Militia_descr}Local militias play an important role in Italian armies. These militias are organised around city quarters and surrounding towns. Whilst service is compulsory, it tends to be short and most serving it are sustained by a strong element of civic pride. These troops are armed with a short spear and shield and are known for their determination in battle.

{Italian_Militia_descr_short}Local militias play an important role in Italian armies. These troops are armed with short spear and shield.

{Italian_Spear_Militia}Italian Spear Militia

{Italian_Spear_Militia_descr}Local militias, organised around city quarters and surrounding towns, play an important role in Italian armies. Whilst service is compulsory, it tends to be short and most serving it are sustained by a strong element of civic pride. These spear militia are comprised of more experienced troops with some armour and long spears, making them a tough defensive unit.

{Italian_Spear_Militia_descr_short}Experienced and well trained local militia equipped with good armour and a spear, able to form a defensive ring of spears.

{Jaguar_Warriors}Jaguar Warriors

{Jaguar_Warriors_descr}Jaguar warriors are fearsome troops, who through great skill and courage are allowed to wear uniforms made from jaguar skins. Their open faced helmet resembles a snarling jaguar and marks them as a fearsome warrior of great skill. They are equipped like most soldiers wearing ichcahuipilli armour and equipped with a chimalli shield and a maquahuitl club.

{Jaguar_Warriors_descr_short}A fearsome warrior, who through great skill and courage wears the jaguar uniform. Armoured with ichcahuipilli armour, chimalli shield, and wielding maquahuitl

{Janissary_Archers}Janissary Archers

{Janissary_Archers_descr}Janissaries, 'Yeni ceri' , meaning new soldier in Greek are recruited by a levy of Christian boys within the empire. Drafted while young, these soldiers form a large part of the Turkish army and pledge loyalty to the Sultan. Janissaries are expert archers equipped with powerful bows. They usually wear some armour underneath their robes.

{Janissary_Archers_descr_short}Janissary archers shower the enemy with arrows, weakening and breaking formations before the infantry move in.

{Janissary_Heavy_Inf}Janissary Heavy Inf

{Janissary_Heavy_Inf_descr}The Janissaries are mostly formed from a levy of Christian boys, but also include prisoners of war who have converted to Islam. These elite heavy infantry are armed with a halberd and armoured in mail. They are expected to lead the infantry charge into battle with courage and honour.

{Janissary_Heavy_Inf_descr_short}Trained in many weapons, these Janissaries, fight with a halberd and are protected by mail armour.

{Janissary_Musketeers}Janissary Musketeers

{Janissary_Musketeers_descr}Janissaries, 'Yeni ceri' , meaning new soldier in Greek are recruited by a levy of Christian boys within the empire, and trained from a young age. As an elite corps they have the best armour and equipment, and are the first in the Turkish army to use the newly invented musket. This heavy gun has a respectable range and can penetrate almost any armour, and is almost guaranteed to inflict a wound that kills or maims.

{Janissary_Musketeers_descr_short}The Janissary were quick to adopt firearms and use them with the same expertise they had shown with their bows.

{Javelinmen}Javelinmen

{Javelinmen_descr}Iberian warfare has a long tradition of light mobile troops, both mounted and foot, fighting with the javelin since pre Roman times. These troops are drawn from the Spanish peasantry, protected by light armour and fighting with the javelin, in Iberian fashion, allowing them to hurl their weapons at their foes, while remaining mobile enough to stay clear of trouble.

{Javelinmen_descr_short}These troops are drawn from the Spanish peasantry, protected by light armour and fighting with the javelin, in Iberian fashion.

{Jinetes}Jinetes

{Jinetes_descr}Influenced by both Iberian and Moorish light cavalry traditions, Jinetes shun heavy armour and lances in favour of light armour and javelins. These well trained horsemen are fast and manoeuvrable, capable of employing a shooting circle tactic enabling riders to create a continuous cycle of firing. Jinetes hurl their javelins before closing in and fighting with their cavalry swords.

{Jinetes_descr_short}Fast and manoeuvrable light cavalry units, Jinetes hurl their javelins before closing in and fighting with their cavalry swords.

{Kataphractoi}Kataphractoi

{Kataphractoi_descr}The Kataphractoi trace their origins back to Roman times and are recruited from amongst the middle classes, providing the Byzantine army with a force of well trained and disciplined cavalry units. Exceptionally well protected and riding armoured horses, they are unworried by the arrows of their opponents. Although slightly old fashioned, with their lances and maces they are still formidable fighters on the battlefield.

{Kataphractoi_descr_short}Very heavily armoured and equipped with a lance and mace, although somewhat outdated they are still formidable troops.

{Kazaks}Kazaks

{Kazaks_descr}The Kazaks are a nomadic people whose existence is centred around livestock. Accustomed to being on horseback, it is no surprise they make good horse archers. They wear little or no armour and are equipped with a composite bow and a small sword. While good at peppering enemies from afar, they should be kept out of hand to hand fighting.

{Kazaks_descr_short}Kazaks are accustomed to being on horseback; they make good horse archers, but are vulnerable in melee.

{Khan's_Guard}Khan's Guard

{Khan's_Guard_descr}Only nobles and freemen are eligible for the Khan's guard. Those selected can look forward to being magnificently equipped. Even ordinary soldiers in the guard have superiority over commanders in the rest of the army. The Khan's bodyguard also acts as a type of military academy with future generals living, fighting and learning alongside the Khan.

{Khan's_Guard_descr_short}Magnificently equipped elite troops loyal to the Khan, and willing to protect him at all costs. 

{King_Francis}King Francis

{King_Francis_descr}King Francis of France, and his bodyguard.

{King_Francis_descr_short}King Francis and his bodyguard.

{King_Guy}King Guy

{King_Guy_descr}King Guy of Jerusalem and his bodyguard of hand-picked knights.

{King_Guy_descr_short}King Guy and his bodyguard.

{King_Harold}King Harold

{King_Harold_descr}King Harold Godwinson and his bodyguard.

{King_Harold_descr_short}King Harold and his bodyguard.

{King_Henry}King Henry V

{King_Henry_descr}King Henry and his bodyguard of hand-picked knights.

{King_Henry_descr_short}King Henry and his bodyguard.

{King_Richard}King Richard

{King_Richard_descr}King Richard the Lionhearted and his bodyguard of hand-picked knights.

{King_Richard_descr_short}King Richard and his bodyguard.

{King_Wladyslaw}King Wladyslaw

{King_Wladyslaw_descr}King Wladyslaw and his bodyguard of hand-picked knights.

{King_Wladyslaw_descr_short}King Wladyslaw and his bodyguard.

{Knights_Hospitaller}Knights Hospitaller

{Knights_Hospitaller_descr}The Knights Hospitaller, also known as the Knights of St. John, were established following the first Crusade to protect and treat Christian pilgrims to the Holy Land. They are recognisable by their black surcoat with a white cross. An elite and powerful fighting order of well trained knights wearing heavy mail or plate armour and armed with a lance. 

{Knights_Hospitaller_descr_short}Well trained and disciplined these knights are amongst the deadliest heavy cavalry in all Christendom.

{Knights_Templar}Knights Templar

{Knights_Templar_descr}The Knights Templar, a fearsome and uncompromising order, were formed shortly after the First Crusade to protect pilgrims. Despite their origins, the order became hugely wealthy and operated the first banking system in Europe. They were disbanded in 1307, after hundreds of Templars were simultaneously arrested and tortured in France on orders from the Pope and the King. Heresy being the main charge. Politics aside, they were famed warriors. 

{Knights_Templar_descr_short}Elite and some say reckless knights formed to protect Christian pilgrims in the Holy Lands.

{Knights_of_Santiago}Knights of Santiago

{Knights_of_Santiago_descr}Based in Spain, the Knights of Santiago, formally the Order of Saint James of Compostela, are charged with fighting in the Reconquista to drive the Moors from Iberia. Well trained, armed with lances and well armoured, this order of elite knights are more than a match for most on the battlefield.

{Knights_of_Santiago_descr_short}Based in Spain, the Knights of Santiago are charged with driving the Moors from Iberia. 

{Kurdish_Javelinmen}Kurdish Javelinmen

{Kurdish_Javelinmen_descr}Kurdish troops are well respected in the east, and often entire tribes would be hired to maintain and guard borders around Syria. These troops are tough mountain men found fighting throughout the Middle East. They soften an enemy with their javelins, then finish them with the sword.

{Kurdish_Javelinmen_descr_short}Hardy troops who soften the enemy with their javelins, then finish them off with their swords.

{Kwarizmian_Cavalry}Kwarizmian Cavalry

{Kwarizmian_Cavalry_descr}The Khwarizmi had a sizeable realm until defeated by the Mongols in 1231. Fleeing westwards after this defeat, Kwarizmian troops have since served as mercenaries in the Middle East. These Khwarizmi are well equipped and well protected troops and make formidable heavy cavalry, ready and able to fight for whichever eastern power can afford them.

{Kwarizmian_Cavalry_descr_short}These Khwarizmi are well equipped and protected heavy cavalry ready to fight for whomever can afford them.

{Lamtuna_Spearmen}Lamtuna Spearmen

{Lamtuna_Spearmen_descr}The Lamtuna are a nomadic tribe of Saharan Berbers. Renown for their fierceness and discipline, Lamtuna troops played a large role in the initial Moorish conquest of Spain and Portugal. These troops are equipped with a long spear, but wear little armour. Useful for defending against cavalry, they can hold a solid line, but are vulnerable to missile fire.

{Lamtuna_Spearmen_descr_short}Fierce and disciplined Saharan Berbers armed with spears.

{Lancers}Lancers

{Lancers_descr}These elite warriors are arguably the ultimate evolution of the medieval knight. Their armour has been perfected by decades of experience, and whilst heavy, the weight is well distributed giving them ample flexibility. Combined with the knightly spirit of old, the only thing they need fear is a well aimed musket bullet.

{Lancers_descr_short}The ultimate knights superbly protected by sophisticated plate armour. With good morale and heavy armour, this unit can tackle anything.

{Landschneckt_Pikemen}Landsknecht Pikemen

{Landschneckt_Pikemen_descr}First created by the reforms of Maximilian I, the Landsknechts were his answer to the threat of the Swiss pikemen, and have earned an excellent reputation. Bitter rivals of the Swiss, no quarter is asked or given when they encounter one another. These elite mercenaries are equipped with long pikes and wear their distinctive and elaborate slash and puffed shirts and hose.

{Landschneckt_Pikemen_descr_short}Originally from the Holy Roman Empire, these elite mercenaries are armed with pikes and their distinctive slash and puffy clothing

{Latinkon}Latinkon

{Latinkon_descr}Latinkon is the collective term for western European troops, in the Byzantine army. Despite fluctuating numbers, there are enough of them to warrant the position of Megas Konostabllos being created to oversee them. With their heavy mail and lances, these warriors are highly valued, with the Emperor's daughter Anna Comnena commenting that they were able to charge through the walls of Babylon.

{Latinkon_descr_short}Western European troops fighting for the Byzantine Empire, these experienced and well trained fighters are armed with lances and swords.

{Levy_Spearmen}Levy Spearmen

{Levy_Spearmen_descr}Levy Spearmen are common folk from villages and towns that have been levied into the army. Armed with long spears and shields these troops are useful at defending flanks, but won't stand up in any prolonged melee.

{Levy_Spearmen_descr_short}Common folk from villages and towns that have been levied into the army, armed with spears and shields.

{Lithuanian_Archers}Lithuanian Archers

{Lithuanian_Archers_descr}Lithuanian troops are often recruited by Polish nobles to serve in their armies. Lithuanian archers are especially recruited for their fine skill on the battlefield. Like most missile troops they are lightly armoured, although they have a large shield. Lithuanian archers are able to lay fiendish stakes in front of them at the start of a battle.

{Lithuanian_Archers_descr_short}Skilled archery unit lightly armoured but equipped with a large shield. Able to lay stakes at start of battle.

{Lithuanian_Cavalry}Lithuanian Cavalry

{Lithuanian_Cavalry_descr}Recruited by Polish generals for their speed, and ferocity, Lithuanian light cavalry are armed with a bow and a sword. Although not well armoured since their country is poor, they often like to fight hand to hand, as the bow is something of a secondary weapon for these men.

{Lithuanian_Cavalry_descr_short}Fierce East European horse archers. Lightly armoured, but still enjoy a good hand to hand scrap.

{Longbowmen}Longbowmen

{Longbowmen_descr}Originating from Wales, a longbow using a 'bodkin' arrow, a hard chiselled tip shaped like an elongated pyramid, can pierce all but the best armour. As the longbow is difficult to master, longbowmen begin training at a young age. Being susceptible to cavalry, they can plant sharpened stakes in front of their position to help keep enemies at bay.

{Longbowmen_descr_short}Armed with the armour piercing longbow, Longbowmen can also plant stakes in front of them to keep cavalry at bay.

{Lusitanian_Javelinmen}Lusitanian Javelinmen

{Lusitanian_Javelinmen_descr}Since the days of the Lusitani tribes in ancient times, the Portuguese have had a long tradition of fighting with the javelin. These lightly armoured skirmishers, drawn from the peasantry, are armed with javelins which they hurl at their foes to weaken their enemies and break up formations. Despite their humble origins these troops are excellent skirmishes.

{Lusitanian_Javelinmen_descr_short}Excellent skirmishes, lightly armoured and fighting with a javelin in Iberian fashion.

{ME_Archer_Militia}Archer Militia

{ME_Archer_Militia_descr}Armed with a bow and knife these troops are made up of lower class city dwellers, who are called up to defend their homes in time of need. Although mostly used as garrison troops, they are sometimes pressed into service in the field. Although given some training with the bow, they cannot be classed as either effective or enthusiastic soldiers.

{ME_Archer_Militia_descr_short}Armed with a bow and knife these troops are made up of locals who have been organised to defend their town.

{ME_Ballista}Ballista

{ME_Ballista_descr}These artillery pieces resemble giant crossbows, on a simple wheeled carriage. They can hurl javelins with great accuracy, and the power of these machines means that their bolts can pierce any armour. 

{ME_Ballista_descr_short}Resembling a giant crossbow, this torsion powered weapon can fling a javelin over 100 meters skewering men with ease.

{ME_Bodyguard}Bodyguard

{ME_Bodyguard_descr}These warriors are dedicated to protecting the general on the battlefield. Hand-picked for loyalty and valour and benefiting from quality armour and weapons, the general's bodyguard are elite heavy cavalry capable of devastating charges and dealing plenty of carnage in hand to hand, as well as taking on odds that would send lesser units running.

{ME_Bodyguard_descr_short}Men dedicated to protecting the general. Hand-picked for loyalty and valour.

{ME_Bombard}Bombard

{ME_Bombard_descr}The first primitive gunpowder siege artillery, bombards were created in China and Western Europe in the early 14th century and spread to the rest of the world by the late 14th century. They are forged from bronze or iron, and designed to fire stone balls that crumble enemy defences. They also shoot inaccurate flaming balls wrapped in pitch-soaked rags, that can incinerate enemy troops!

{ME_Bombard_descr_short}Primitive siege-gun forged of bronze or iron, can shoot solid stone or flaming shot. Inaccurate versus units.

{ME_Cannon}Cannon

{ME_Cannon_descr}The archetypical cannon was used all across the world by the mid to late 15th century. Mounted on a large wheeled chassis and featuring a longer improved barrel, the cannon is far superior to the bombards that preceded it. Able to demolish enemy walls from a greater range and able to fire troop-killing explosive shells, the cannon is rightly feared.

{ME_Cannon_descr_short}The typical 'cannon' is powerful and good against both units and defences. Capable of firing solid and explosive shots.

{ME_Catapult}Catapult

{ME_Catapult_descr}Constructed of wood and capable of flinging stones large enough to crush a man's head, the catapult was a common site on the ancient Roman battlefield. Now in the medieval era, the catapult is being replaced by newer and more powerful weapons.

{ME_Catapult_descr_short}Older style rock-flinging wooden artillery piece. Can throw flaming and normal shots.

{ME_Crossbow_Militia}Crossbow Militia

{ME_Crossbow_Militia_descr}Very popular in Moorish Iberia, the crossbow is used by peasants and noble alike. These troops are locals that have been levied into a local force to defend their town and nearby bridges and roads. Benefiting from some training and armour, these reservists are armed with a crossbow for ranged combat, although they will melt away if caught in melee.

{ME_Crossbow_Militia_descr_short}Local militia armed with crossbows and some armour, good for ranged combat, but will melt away in melee.

{ME_Grand_Bombard}Grand Bombard

{ME_Grand_Bombard_descr}The Grand Bombard was created as an improvement to the bombard in the early 15th century. Made to be harder-hitting and with longer range than its predecessor, this iron-forged piece of siege artillery is able to inflict punishing damage on enemy defences. Like its predecessor, it too can deliver flaming chastisement to enemy troops.

{ME_Grand_Bombard_descr_short}The Grand Bombard has increased range, damage and accuracy compared to the bombard.

{ME_Halberd_Militia}Halberd Militia

{ME_Halberd_Militia_descr}Halberd Militia are townsfolk who have been levied into the militia to guard their settlements. Better trained and equipped than most militias, These townsfolk carry long halberds that can fend off cavalry and crush the most heavily armoured of foes.

{ME_Halberd_Militia_descr_short}These townsfolk carry long halberds that can fend off cavalry and crush the most heavily armoured of foes.

{ME_Hand_Gunners}Hand Gunners

{ME_Hand_Gunners_descr}Handguns are the earliest, most primitive type of hand-held firearm, and consist of a short metal barrel fixed to a long wooden handle. They are inaccurate, take a while to reload, and are somewhat unsafe for the person firing them. Nevertheless they fire with quite a lot of power and the smoke and noise can demoralise troops. Well trained and well armoured this unit is a powerful short range unit.

{ME_Hand_Gunners_descr_short}Somewhat inaccurate but capable of firing a powerful shot, the noise and smoke from these handguns can demoralise enemy troops.

{ME_Late_Bodyguard}Bodyguard

{ME_Late_Bodyguard_descr}These warriors are dedicated to protecting the general on the battlefield. Hand-picked for loyalty and valour and benefiting from quality armour and weapons, the general's bodyguard are elite heavy cavalry capable of devastating charges and dealing plenty of carnage in hand to hand, as well as taking on odds that would send lesser units running.

{ME_Late_Bodyguard_descr_short}Men dedicated to protecting the general. Hand-picked for loyalty and valour.

{ME_Levy_Spearmen}Levy Spearmen

{ME_Levy_Spearmen_descr}These men have been forcibly drafted into the service of their masters to do the dirty work in sieges, perform garrison duties, or just to make their armies more impressive in size. Given a long spear and shield, but little training or armour, they are only of use in defensive roles or as cannon fodder. When their fear of the enemy surpasses their fear of their masters, they will flee.

{ME_Levy_Spearmen_descr_short}Levied troops, comprised of people from captured territories and the bottom rung of nomadic society, armed with spears.

{ME_Monster_Bombard}Monster Bombard

{ME_Monster_Bombard_descr}The Gun to end all Guns. The Monster Bombard is made for one purpose only, the utter destruction of enemy defences. This massive Bombard fires a stone ball weighing well over half a ton, obliterating any but the most massive walls in one shot. Unfortunately the down side of all this firepower is that it takes an eternity to reload.

{ME_Monster_Bombard_descr_short}Massive Siege-Gun. Can destroy nearly any wall in one shot. Has very long range but slow reload time.

{ME_Peasant_Archers}Peasant Archers

{ME_Peasant_Archers_descr}Peasant Archers are accustomed to using their bow for hunting. These peasant archers are armed with a small bow, knife, and if lucky enough, some armour. Life at the bottom of medieval society is neither easy or healthy, these units have either been levied into an army, by the sword if necessary, or have been forced to defend their pitiful holdings.

{ME_Peasant_Archers_descr_short}Accustomed to using their bow for hunting, these peasant archers are armed with a small bow and knife.

{ME_Peasant_Crossbowmen}Peasant Crossbowmen

{ME_Peasant_Crossbowmen_descr}It is said, that in Granada, every peasant owns a crossbow. Certainly they are popular with the Moors of Southern Spain, being both easy to use, and effective against well armoured Christian foes. Although they can't afford armour, they can give their betters a nasty surprise. A wise general won't rely on them too far in combat though.

{ME_Peasant_Crossbowmen_descr_short}Wearing little to no armour, but armed with a crossbow these peasants can give far superior troops a nasty surprise.

{ME_Peasants}Peasants

{ME_Peasants_descr}Life at the bottom rung of medieval society is neither easy or healthy. In times of war peasants are forced from their farms and drafted into levies, and if they are lucky, given some kind of simple weapon to fight with. Unsurprisingly, peasants are undisciplined troops who are better at fleeing than they are fighting. 

{ME_Peasants_descr_short}In times of war peasants are forced from their farms and drafted into levies. Good cannon fodder.

{ME_Spear_Militia}Spear Militia

{ME_Spear_Militia_descr}These troops are city dwellers usually called up to defend their homes in time of need, but sometimes pressed into action on foreign campaigns. With their long spears they make good defensive units, but don't have the training or stomach to maintain a long fight.

{ME_Spear_Militia_descr_short}Armed with a long spear but little armour, these troops are made up of locals who have been organised to defend their settlement.

{ME_Town_Militia}Town Militia

{ME_Town_Militia_descr}Armed with a short spear but little armour, these troops are city dwellers usually called up to defend their homes in time of need, but sometimes pressed into action on foreign campaigns. Although useful for city defence, they should not be relied on in the field.

{ME_Town_Militia_descr_short}Armed with a spear but little armour, these troops are made up of locals who have been organised to defend their town.

{ME_Trebuchet}Trebuchet

{ME_Trebuchet_descr}The counter-weight Trebuchet is an evolution of the man-powered mangonel and catapults dating back before the 11th century. It has quickly spread throughout the world as an effective siege engine capable of lobbing large wall- crushing boulders. The Trebuchet is also able to fling such things as burning missiles and rotten animal remains to devastate enemy units.

{ME_Trebuchet_descr_short}Giant rock flinging artillery piece. Capable of flaming and normal shot. Also able to fling diseased cows!

{Magyar_Cavalry}Magyar Cavalry

{Magyar_Cavalry_descr}When the originally nomadic Magyar people settled in the plains of Hungary, some held on to their nomadic roots and continued life on the saddle. This cultural disposition makes Magyars excellent horse archers. Able to rain arrows upon their foes and stay out of trouble, these natural horsemen are armed with a composite bow and wear light armour.

{Magyar_Cavalry_descr_short}These natural horsemen are armed with a composite bow and wear light armour.

{Mailed_Knights}Mailed Knights

{Mailed_Knights_descr}As Europe emerges from the dark ages, the armoured cavalry have begun to employ new tactics, gripping their lances tightly under their arms as they charge, transferring the full momentum of horse and man to the point. Combining heavy armour, a strong warrior ethos, and a devastating charge, they have come to dominate the battlefield.

{Mailed_Knights_descr_short}Encased in mail and equipped with lances and swords these early knights are formidable fighting machines.

{Mamluk_Archers}Mamluk Archers

{Mamluk_Archers_descr}Mamluks are the elite professional cavalry of the Egyptian Army. Bought as slaves from the hardy Turkish steppe peoples, they are trained from boyhood to be men of the sword. When their training is finished, they are freed and enrolled in the army. Although cavalry archers, these are no light skirmishers. Instead they operate in close formation to lay down a heavy barrage of fire. They have maces for use on anyone who gets too close.

{Mamluk_Archers_descr_short}Bought as slaves, and trained from boyhood, these formidable soldiers excel at archery, but can also hold their own in melee.

{Mamluks}Mamluks

{Mamluks_descr}Mamluks are the elite professional cavalry of the Egyptian Army. Bought as slaves from the hardy Turkish steppe peoples, they are trained from boyhood in the ways of the warrior. When their training is finished, they are freed and enrolled in the army. These men are equipped for close fighting with spears, maces and shields.

{Mamluks_descr_short}Bought as slaves, and trained from boyhood and well equipped, these soldiers make formidable heavy cavalry.

{Mercenary_Arquebusiers}Mercenary Arquebusiers

{Mercenary_Arquebusiers_descr}Fired at close range and quite accurate, with only a little chance of exploding and killing the person firing it. This early type of firearm is capable of firing deadly volleys that can pierce most armour. This noisy, smokey and lethal weapon is so intimidating it can cause its targets to run in fear.

{Mercenary_Arquebusiers_descr_short}Fired at close range, this noisy, Smokey and lethal weapon causes morale damage as well as physical hurt.

{Mercenary_Crossbowmen}Mercenary Crossbowmen

{Mercenary_Crossbowmen_descr}The crossbow is a potent weapon ready to be used with minimal training unlike other archery weapons. It is slow to reload and lacks the distance of drawn bows but makes up for it in power. Mercenary crossbow units are popular throughout the known world as they provide ranged punch for those that need it.

{Mercenary_Crossbowmen_descr_short}Mercenary unit equipped with crossbow, sword and armoured with mail.

{Mercenary_Frankish_Knights}Mercenary Frankish Knights

{Mercenary_Frankish_Knights_descr}The term 'Frank' is a collective term used in medieval times for western Europeans. Many of these knights have turned war into a profitable career by becoming mercenaries. Well trained, clad in heavy mail and using a lance, these formidable soldiers are invaluable to whomever can afford them.

{Mercenary_Frankish_Knights_descr_short}These Feudal mercenary knights are powerful troops and invaluable to whomever can afford them.

{Mercenary_German_Knights}Mercenary German Knights

{Mercenary_German_Knights_descr}These are knights from the Holy Roman Empire that have chosen to fight for money. Wearing plate armour, and equipped with maces, as well as lances, these trained and experienced knights are a good choice for taking on other heavily armoured units. Although excellent shock troops, they do have a strong interest in personal survival.

{Mercenary_German_Knights_descr_short}Protected by plate armour and equipped with maces, these knights for hire excel at taking on heavily armoured units.

{Mercenary_Knights}Mercenary Knights

{Mercenary_Knights_descr}Not all Knights owned land, nor did joining an order or being part of a lord's retinue suit all knights. Many choose to offer their expertise in warfare to whomever can afford them. These knights are armoured in plate mail and wield lances and swords. Capable of deadly charges and impressive melee combat, these knights are well worth the money.

{Mercenary_Knights_descr_short}Capable of deadly charges and impressive melee combat, these mercenary knights are well worth the money.

{Mercenary_Monster_Bombard}Mercenary Monster Bombard

{Mercenary_Monster_Bombard_descr}The Gun to end all Guns. The Monster Bombard is made for one purpose only, the utter destruction of enemy defences. This massive Bombard fires a stone ball weighing well over half a ton, obliterating any but the most massive walls in one shot. Unfortunately the down side of all this firepower is that it takes an eternity to reload.

{Mercenary_Monster_Bombard_descr_short}Massive Siege-Gun. Can destroy nearly any wall in one shot. Has very long range but slow reload time.

{Mercenary_Monster_Ribault}Mercenary Monster Ribault

{Mercenary_Monster_Ribault_descr}Italian inventors have been experimenting with mounting large numbers of gun barrels in one frame. This example features 36 mounted on a wagon much like the standard ribault. It is capable of firing in 6 shot volleys or a titanic 36 shot barrage, thus truly deserving the title of monster. 

{Mercenary_Monster_Ribault_descr_short}36 Cannon barrels mounted on a wagon frame. Deadly short-ranged defensive gun capable of laying down a tremendous barrage.

{Mercenary_Pavise_Crossbowmen}Mercenary Pavise Crossbowmen

{Mercenary_Pavise_Crossbowmen_descr}While the crossbow is relatively easy to use and quite powerful, it leaves the user quite vulnerable during the slow reload process. Therefore it makes sense to give the crossbowmen a large shield. These men wear a large pavise shield on their backs, which they turn to the enemy so that they're protected while reloading.

{Mercenary_Pavise_Crossbowmen_descr_short}These troops are armed with a large shield to hide behind during the slow process of reloading the crossbow.

{Mercenary_Ribault}Mercenary Ribault

{Mercenary_Ribault_descr}The Ribault, also known as the organ gun due to its many pipes, is a fearsome spectacle on the battlefield. Armed with six short-ranged barrels, it is often used in the defence of other longer-ranged artillery. Able to fire all six barrels at once, it makes the enemy think twice before engaging!

{Mercenary_Ribault_descr_short}A small multi-barrel wagon mounted cannon. A good defensive tool able to fire singly or in a six-barrel barrage.

{Mercenary_Rocket_Launcher}Mercenary Rocket Launcher

{Mercenary_Rocket_Launcher_descr}Available for those that can afford it. The Mongolian rocket launcher resembles a wooden, fire-spitting demon-wagon. Inspired by the rockets fired at them during the invasion of China, the Mongols have fiendishly mounted 36 of them on one frame. Although very inaccurate, the rockets are fired in a great barrage capable of hitting multiple units simultaneously.

{Mercenary_Rocket_Launcher_descr_short}Rocket Launcher capable of delivering a great, if inaccurate salvo, over a large area.

{Mercenary_Spearmen}Mercenary Spearmen

{Mercenary_Spearmen_descr}Along with the club and bow, the spear is one of the oldest weapons. Easy to use, it is the most common weapon on battlefields throughout Europe. Wherever you go there are men for hire who can use a spear, and use it well. Wearing light armour and being solid defenders, these mercenaries are useful to bolster the ranks of any army.

{Mercenary_Spearmen_descr_short}Mercenaries wearing light armour and equipped with spears, useful for armies lacking sufficient defence against cavalry units.

{Merchant_Cavalry_Militia}Merchant Cavalry Militia

{Merchant_Cavalry_Militia_descr}The rich as well as the poor must do their civic duty, but the rich prefer to ride. The wealth brought by trade allows merchants to equip themselves with horses and the finest armour available. However, they lack the training and elan of real knights and should not be relied on too far in battle

{Merchant_Cavalry_Militia_descr_short}Poorly trained, but well equipped cavalry who fight with a sword. 

{Mongol_Bodyguard}Bodyguard

{Mongol_Bodyguard_descr}Elite veterans picked for their valour and loyalty to protect the general. Usually only open to nobles and freemen, these troops are well equipped and armed, making them very powerful heavy cavalry capable of devastating charges and deadly melee attacks.

{Mongol_Bodyguard_descr_short}Men picked for valour and loyalty to protect the general.

{Mongol_Foot_Archers}Mongol Foot Archers

{Mongol_Foot_Archers_descr}Even without their horses, Mongol warriors make for excellent and well disciplined missile troops. With little or no armour, these archers are best at weakening enemies from a distance with their powerful composite bows and moving in with small hand weapons when the enemy are virtually beaten, as these troops stand little chance in tough melees. 

{Mongol_Foot_Archers_descr_short}With little or no armour, these archers are best at weakening enemies from a distance with their powerful composite bows.

{Mongol_Heavy_Archers}Mongol Heavy Archers

{Mongol_Heavy_Archers_descr}The main weapon of the Mongol army is the bow, and as Mongol warriors are born into the saddle, they make excellent horse archers. These warriors have exchanged the mobility of light armour for the protection of heavy lamellar armour, allowing them to take a little more punishment from both ranged and melee weapons.

{Mongol_Heavy_Archers_descr_short}Protected by lamellar armour, giving these horse archers better protection against enemy attacks.

{Mongol_Heavy_Lancers}Mongol Heavy Lancers

{Mongol_Heavy_Lancers_descr}These elite shock troops exchange mobility for heavier armour on both rider and mount. Supremely skilled warriors who excel in armed combat and horse riding, they are armed with a lance and mace known as a 'gulda' and armoured in a lamellar cuirass called a 'khuyad'.

{Mongol_Heavy_Lancers_descr_short}Elite shock troops who exchange mobility for heavier armour.

{Mongol_Horse_Archers}Mongol Horse Archers

{Mongol_Horse_Archers_descr}The most common troop type amongst the Mongols, these warriors are born into the saddle and as such they make excellent horse archers. Equipped with a compound bow and hand weapon, and lightly armoured for manoeuvrability on the battlefield, these warriors can pepper their enemies with arrows and stay clear of trouble or lead the enemy into ambushes with false retreats.

{Mongol_Horse_Archers_descr_short}The most common troop type amongst the Mongols, these light mounted missile troops combine famed Mongol archery with excellent horsemanship.

{Mongol_Infantry}Mongol Infantry

{Mongol_Infantry_descr}Even without their horses, Mongol warriors make for formidable and well disciplined warriors. Lightly armoured and equipped with swords and their impressive composite bows, these warriors are capable of weakening the enemy from a distance and moving in to crush any disorganised remnants, although as light infantry a wise general will keep them away from melees they cannot win.

{Mongol_Infantry_descr_short}Lightly armoured and equipped with swords and their impressive composite bows, these warriors are still formidable without their horses.

{Mongol_Light_Lancers}Mongol Light Lancers

{Mongol_Light_Lancers_descr}Mongol tribesmen learn to ride and hunt as soon as they can walk, with both skills used as training for war. Lightly armoured in leather and equipped with a hand weapon and a lance, these matchless horsemen use their mobility to harass enemy flanks and pursue the enemy.

{Mongol_Light_Lancers_descr_short}Lightly armoured and equipped with lance and hand weapon, these matchless horseman excel at harassing enemy flanks.

{Mounted_Crossbowmen}Mounted Crossbowmen

{Mounted_Crossbowmen_descr}Forced to counter the quick and mobile missile units of the east, European forces have begun to develop lighter and more mobile units such as these Mounted Crossbows. Using smaller crossbows than the infantry, these units use their mobility to stay out of trouble while they reload their crossbows, as their rate of fire is no better than that of the infantry crossbow.

{Mounted_Crossbowmen_descr_short}Using smaller crossbows than the infantry, these units use their mobility to stay out of trouble while they reload.

{Mounted_Longbowmen}Mounted Longbowmen

{Mounted_Longbowmen_descr}Although many longbowmen possess horses for transport, only a select few have sufficient skills in archery and horsemanship, to fire from horseback. Being mounted allows for increased mobility enabling the longbowman to out flank his enemies and ride out of danger. However, these men are by no means real cavalry and should be kept away from those that are.

{Mounted_Longbowmen_descr_short}The advantage of being mounted allows a longbowman to flank his enemies and ride out of danger. Not to be mistaken for true cavalry though.

{Mounted_Sergeants}Mounted Sergeants

{Mounted_Sergeants_descr}Mounted Sergeants are the lesser armed cavalry that ride in support of the knights. They comprise squires, rich commoners, or lesser nobility that cannot afford the expensive armour of a real knight. Although they cannot compare to real knights in battle, with their spears and swords they can perform valuable service against lighter enemies.

{Mounted_Sergeants_descr_short}These veteran warriors wear light armour and are armed with a spear and a sword.

{Musketeers}Musketeers

{Musketeers_descr}An improvement on the arquebus, the musket is longer, more accurate and fires a heavier shot that can pierce any armour. Like the arquebus, it fires using a matchlock mechanism, a smouldering length of rope as a fuse that ignites the gunpowder in the pan. The noise, smoke and lethality of this weapon causes fear in its targets

{Musketeers_descr_short}The musket is an improved form of firearm. Firing a heavy shot to a good range, it causes fear, and can pierce any armour.

{Mutatawwi'a}Mutatawwi'a

{Mutatawwi'a_descr}Mutatawwi'a are religious troops who inspired by their faith have volunteered to fight. Untrained, reckless and fanatical, these troops are poorly equipped with hand weapons such as cudgels. These wild warriors are more of a mob rather than a disciplined unit, eager to get into hand to hand with their enemy no matter the odds.

{Mutatawwi'a_descr_short}Wild and fanatical religious volunteers. Untrained and armed only with their zeal and a crude weapon these troops are reckless.

{NE_Ballista}Ballista

{NE_Ballista_descr}These artillery pieces resemble giant crossbows, on a simple wheeled carriage. They can hurl javelins with great accuracy, and the power of these machines means that their bolts can pierce any armour. 

{NE_Ballista_descr_short}Resembling a giant crossbow, this powerful weapon can fling a javelin to a great range, skewering men with ease.

{NE_Basilisk}Basilisk

{NE_Basilisk_descr}This fearsome artillery piece is the pinnacle of late Medieval siege-gun engineering. With greater range, damage and accuracy than all the siege guns that come before it, no enemy emplacements can stand up to its fearsome bombardment, nor can enemy troops withstand its explosive shots. Generals should fear the gaze of the Basilisk! 

{NE_Basilisk_descr_short}Very powerful cannon with great range, damage and accuracy. Punishing against defences and units. Can fire solid or explosive shots.

{NE_Bodyguard}General's Bodyguard

{NE_Bodyguard_descr}These are truly formidable troops whose task it is to guard the army's general. Wearing mail, or early plate armour and wielding lances, these elite troops fear little on the battlefield and make fearsome opponents. Loyal and disciplined, this elite heavy cavalry unit accompanies the general wherever he goes on the battlefield.

{NE_Bodyguard_descr_short}Well armed and equipped these elite troops have the task of guarding and fighting alongside the army's general.

{NE_Bombard}Bombard

{NE_Bombard_descr}The first primitive gunpowder siege artillery, bombards were created in China and Western Europe in the early 14th century and spread to the rest of the world by the late 14th century. They are forged from bronze or iron, and designed to fire stone balls that crumble enemy defences. They also shoot inaccurate flaming balls wrapped in pitch-soaked rags, that can incinerate enemy troops!

{NE_Bombard_descr_short}Primitive siege-gun forged of bronze or iron, can shoot solid stone or flaming shot. Inaccurate versus units.

{NE_Cannon}Cannon

{NE_Cannon_descr}The archetypical cannon was used all across the world by the mid to late 15th century. Mounted on a large wheeled chassis and featuring a longer improved barrel, the cannon is far superior to the bombards that preceded it. Able to demolish enemy walls from a greater range and able to fire troop-killing explosive shells, the cannon is rightly feared.

{NE_Cannon_descr_short}The typical 'cannon' is powerful and good against both units and defences. Capable of firing solid and explosive shots.

{NE_Catapult}Catapult

{NE_Catapult_descr}Constructed of wood and capable of flinging stones large enough to crush a man's head, the catapult was a common site on the ancient Roman battlefield. Now in the medieval era, the catapult is being replaced by newer and more powerful weapons.

{NE_Catapult_descr_short}Older style rock-flinging wooden artillery piece. Can throw flaming and normal shots.

{NE_Culverin}Culverin

{NE_Culverin_descr}The Culverin is a type of bombard and a fearsome piece of artillery, first used in Germany. It utilises advanced metallurgy techniques, superior construction and better trained crews to outrange and outshoot nearly all preceding bombards. Able to fire solid or exploding shots, the culverin is devastating against enemy walls and lethal against enemy troops!

{NE_Culverin_descr_short}Able to fire solid or exploding shots, the culverin is devastating against enemy walls and lethal against enemy troops!

{NE_Grand_Bombard}Grand Bombard

{NE_Grand_Bombard_descr}The Grand Bombard was created as an improvement to the bombard in the early 15th century. Made to be harder hitting and with longer range than its predecessor, this iron-forged piece of siege artillery is able to inflict punishing damage on enemy defences. Like its predecessor, it too can deliver flaming chastisement to enemy troops.

{NE_Grand_Bombard_descr_short}The Grand Bombard has increased range, damage and accuracy compared to the bombard.

{NE_Late_Bodyguard}General's Bodyguard

{NE_Late_Bodyguard_descr}The combination of full plate armour, and later magnificent gothic armour, a fully armoured horse and a lance, make these elite warriors mobile killing machines. These warriors are the general's personal guard, fiercely loyal and disciplined there is little this unit cannot take on and not come out on top.

{NE_Late_Bodyguard_descr_short}Elite knights hand picked to protect the general.

{NE_Monster_Ribault}Monster Ribault

{NE_Monster_Ribault_descr}Italian inventors have been experimenting with mounting large numbers of gun barrels in one frame. This example features 36 mounted on a wagon much like the standard ribault. It is capable of firing in 6 shot volleys or a titanic 36 shot barrage, thus truly deserving the title of monster. 

{NE_Monster_Ribault_descr_short}36 cannon barrels mounted on a wagon frame. Deadly short-ranged defensive gun capable of laying down a tremendous barrage.

{NE_Mortar}Mortar

{NE_Mortar_descr}Resembling the iron bowl from which it gains its name, the Mortar was created to lob shots over intervening walls. Useful in dealing with units skulking behind walls for protection, or to whittle away besieging troops outside your own walls. The mortar's capabilities makes it an excellent siege weapon for both attacker and defender.

{NE_Mortar_descr_short}A siege weapon capable of firing over walls and plunging shots down on enemies hiding behind said walls.

{NE_Ribault}Ribault

{NE_Ribault_descr}The Ribault, also known as the organ gun due to its many pipes, is a fearsome spectacle on the battlefield. Armed with nine short-ranged barrels, it is often used in the defence of other longer-ranged artillery. Able to fire all nine barrels at once, it makes the enemy think twice before engaging!

{NE_Ribault_descr_short}A small multi-barrel wagon mounted cannon. A good defensive tool able to fire in a nine-barrel barrage.

{NE_Serpentine}Serpentine

{NE_Serpentine_descr}The serpentine is so named, because its long slender barrel resembles a snake. This piece is designed for attacking enemy troops, rather than walls. Its long thin barrel gives it good range and accuracy, and its small calibre ammunition makes it quicker to reload than heavier pieces.

{NE_Serpentine_descr_short}Light cannon designed for use against troops rather than walls.

{NE_Trebuchet}Trebuchet

{NE_Trebuchet_descr}The counter-weight Trebuchet is an evolution of the man-powered mangonel and catapults dating back before the 11th century. It has quickly spread throughout the world as an effective siege engine capable of lobbing large wall- crushing boulders. The Trebuchet is also able to fling such things as burning missiles and rotten animal remains to devastate enemy units.

{NE_Trebuchet_descr_short}Giant rock flinging artillery piece. Capable of flaming and normal shot. Also able to fling diseased cows!

{Naffatun}Naffatun

{Naffatun_descr}Naphtha is a mixture of chemicals that become a fiery liquid that is difficult to put out. These men throw deadly ceramic pots of flaming Naphtha that burst into flames on impact spilling a sticky molten mess that can seep through any armour. The prospect of a fiery death can unnerve even the bravest warrior.

{Naffatun_descr_short}These men throw deadly pots of flaming Naphtha that can seep through any armour.

{Native_Archers}Native Archers

{Native_Archers_descr}These archers are usually village hunters who have banded together to defend their homes. Equipped with a bow, stone axe and padded armour, these indigenous hunters train in the way of the bow from a young age and will protect their territory with zeal.

{Native_Archers_descr_short}Native troops armed with a simple bow and a crude stone axe.

{Native_Mercenaries}Native Mercenaries

{Native_Mercenaries_descr}These indigenous mercenaries are poorly equipped men who have formed into a group willing to fight for payment of some sort. Armed only with a club and some light padded armour, these men are good at absorbing arrows intended for your more expensive units.

{Native_Mercenaries_descr_short}Armed with a club and a shield these mercenaries help fill in gaps in your battle line.

{Native_Warriors}Native Warriors

{Native_Warriors_descr}These are the indigenous warriors of the new world. Armed only with a stone axe and small shield, numbers are these warriors' greatest ally.

{Native_Warriors_descr_short}Very basic warrior armed with a stone axe and small shield.

{Noble_Highland_Archers}Noble Highland Archers

{Noble_Highland_Archers_descr}Noble Highland archers are the cream of Scottish archery. These nobles are trained from a young age in all manner of warfare but have taken a special interest in the bow. Armed with a one-handed axe in case they are engaged in melee and protected by mail these archers provide a decent hand to hand alternative once out of ammunition.

{Noble_Highland_Archers_descr_short}The best Scottish archers available, armed with a bow, mail and hand axe, these archers are good in a fight.

{Noble_Knights}Noble Knights

{Noble_Knights_descr}These men are the elite of the French aristocracy, and can to afford the best in arms and armour, not just for themselves, but also for their horses. As the flower of French chivalry, they have an elan that is unrivalled. Proud and headstrong their usual tactic is an immediate charge. Simple, but devastatingly effective.

{Noble_Knights_descr_short}Made up from the cream of France's nobility, these elite warriors are deadly in the charge, and unmatched in fighting spirit.

{Noble_Pikemen}Noble Pikemen

{Noble_Pikemen_descr}Since Scottish armies cannot field cavalry to match the English knights, they have found other ways to neutralise this threat, such as rows of brave men with long steel pointed sticks. These well trained, although sometimes reckless clansmen are armed with pikes, allowing them to present English knights with a wall of pointy death.

{Noble_Pikemen_descr_short}Well armoured Pikemen made up of Scottish nobles preferring to fight in the infantry.

{Noble_Swordsmen}Noble Swordsmen

{Noble_Swordsmen_descr}Scottish Noble Swordsmen represent those of the nobility who prefer to fight on foot. Armoured in expensive plate and wielding a sword and shield, these skilled warriors provide a Scottish general a unit with staying power and attacking skill combined in one package.

{Noble_Swordsmen_descr_short}Strong Scottish melee unit armed with sword and shield and wearing plate armour.

{Norman_Catapult}Catapult

{Norman_Catapult_descr}Constructed of wood and capable of flinging stones large enough to crush a man's head, the catapult was a common sight on the ancient Roman battlefield. Now in the medieval era, the catapult is being replaced by newer and more powerful weapons.

{Norman_Catapult_descr_short}Older style rock-flinging wooden artillery piece. Can throw flaming and normal shots.

{Norman_Knights}Norman Knights

{Norman_Knights_descr}Of all the knights of Europe, the Normans are the most renowned. Their Viking heritage and lust for battle has led many to seek their fortune abroad, especially in Southern Italy. Here two adventurers, Robert and Roger Guiscard have established a formidable kingdom which employs many of their countrymen. The Norman Knight's exceptional ferocity, and heavy armour make him feared on any battlefield

{Norman_Knights_descr_short}Exceptionally fierce knights, wearing heavy mail, and equipped with sturdy lances.

{Norse_Archers}Norse Archers

{Norse_Archers_descr}These men have inherited a fine Viking tradition of bow-armed warriors. Drawn from the ranks of free farmers, they are able to afford some light protection, and a sword for close combat, for which they have far more appetite than other light archers. On the other hand, their bows are weak and of a simple construction due to the cold climate.

{Norse_Archers_descr_short}Armed with a bow, a sword, shield and light armour, Norse archers are weak at shooting, but can stand their ground in melee.

{Norse_Axemen}Norse Axemen

{Norse_Axemen_descr}Nothing screams Scandinavian more than a burly blonde man maiming an opponent with a rather large axe. Being as the axe is a favoured weapon of all Norsemen, it comes as no surprise to find the Danes field units exclusively armed with two-handed "Danish" Axes. Girded in heavy armour, Norse Axemen can absorb much punishment, before they dish out threefold.

{Norse_Axemen_descr_short}Formidable axemen from Scandinavia. Equipped with two-handed axes and protected by heavy armour

{Norse_Swordsmen}Norse Swordsmen

{Norse_Swordsmen_descr}Though the axe is a popular weapon for Danes, wielding a sword shows that the wielder is a man of worth. These swordsmen come from minor nobility and have superior training to the common troops. Their station means they can afford decent armour as well, all having at least chainmail, and many upgrading to plate.

{Norse_Swordsmen_descr_short}Well armed and equipped Norse swordsmen. Able to wear chain and plate armour.

{Nubian_Archers}Nubian Archers

{Nubian_Archers_descr}Nubian Archers are African soldiers from the lands south of the Sahara, including Ethiopia and the Sudan. Most are slaves, but some are free soldiers serving for pay. They wear little or no armour but are armed with a powerful bow and a mace as a hand weapon. A wise general will use this unit to pepper the enemy with arrows, but will keep them out of harm's way.

{Nubian_Archers_descr_short}Coming from all over Africa these light troops are equipped with a bow and hand weapon.

{Nubian_Spearmen}Nubian Spearmen

{Nubian_Spearmen_descr}Nubian Spearmen are African slaves from the lands south of the Sahara desert, trained and formed into standing military units. They are brave and resilient, but lightly armed with short spears, shields, and lacking armour. While useful at defending flanks and dealing with light cavalry, these troops won't hold up in a prolonged melee.

{Nubian_Spearmen_descr_short}Useful for guarding flanks, these light troops are armed with a spear but little to no armour. 

{Obudshaer}Obudshaer

{Obudshaer_descr}Obudshaer are units consisting of single men created for use in foreign service. Armed with a halberd and bedecked in plate armour, these men provide stiff and bloody opposition to all who wish to do them harm. Their long halberds can fend off cavalry, and crush armour.

{Obudshaer_descr_short}Skilled Danish halberd unit armoured in plate armour. 

{Ottoman_Infantry}Ottoman Infantry

{Ottoman_Infantry_descr}Ottoman Infantry are hardy soldiers, well armed and well armoured, they fight with both bows and swords, allowing them to pepper the enemy with arrows and then move into melee to finish them off. Their armour, and training in combat, means that this unit can hold its ground in a close up fight.

{Ottoman_Infantry_descr_short}Hardy soldiers, well armed and well armoured, they fight with both bows and swords.

{Papal_Guard}Papal Guard

{Papal_Guard_descr}These troops are the Pope's loyal guard, tasked to guard the Holy Father both at home and when the Pope goes to battle. Fiercely loyal these elite troops are armed with spears, good mail armour, and shield, and are able to form a defensive ring of spears.

{Papal_Guard_descr_short}The Pope's personal loyal guard at home and in battle. These elite troops are armed with spears, mail armour and shield.

{Partisan_Militia}Voulge Militia

{Partisan_Militia_descr}The voulge is a polearm related to simple harvesting tools but turned into a weapon of war. It is a hacking weapon of simple construction and easy to use, making it ideal for a militia garrison. Voulge Militia are reasonably well armoured, and able to defend themselves against both cavalry and foot.

{Partisan_Militia_descr_short}Effective militia equipped with some armour, and the versatile voulge.

{Pavise_Crossbow_Militia}Pavise Crossbow Militia

{Pavise_Crossbow_Militia_descr}The crossbow is an excellent weapon for the militiaman, being easy to use, although slow to reload. These men carry a large pavise shield to give them some protection while reloading. Being relatively wealthy townsfolk, they can also afford decent armour. A certain number of militia can be maintained in a city for free.

{Pavise_Crossbow_Militia_descr_short}Italian crossbow militia, armoured with mail and a pavise.

{Pavise_Crossbowmen}Pavise Crossbowmen

{Pavise_Crossbowmen_descr}While the crossbow is relatively easy to use and powerful, it leaves the user quite vulnerable during the slow reload process. These men have large pavise shields on their backs, which they turn to the enemy while they reload.

{Pavise_Crossbowmen_descr_short}These troops are armed with a large shield to protect them during the slow process of reloading their crossbow.

{Pavise_Spearmen}Pavise Spearmen

{Pavise_Spearmen_descr}Many of these Pavise Spearmen are made up of Hungary's 'Jobbagy', holders of a small fiefdom, serving their military duty as infantry because they are too impoverished to own or equip a horse. Armed with a spear and well protected by good armour, these troops are effective medium infantry capable of forming a defensive ring of spears.

{Pavise_Spearmen_descr_short}Lower gentry serving military duty. Wearing good armour and equipped with a spear, able to form a defensive ring of spears.

{Peasant_Archers}Peasant Archers

{Peasant_Archers_descr}While most peasants in Europe were levied into the army, at sword point if need be, some welcomed the opportunity to earn some pay, and travel. Their bows are designed for hunting rather than war, so are only effective against lightly armoured foes. They carry a knife for protection, but should be kept out of hand to hand combat, and will probably run away if any seems likely.

{Peasant_Archers_descr_short}A peasant archer is armed with a small bow, and a knife. Unreliable, and only moderately effective as archers.

{Peasant_Crossbowmen}Peasant Crossbowmen

{Peasant_Crossbowmen_descr}Far simpler to train in the use of a crossbow than a bow, many generals arm their peasants with crossbows to provide mass missile fire. Peasant Crossbowmen are equipped with a crossbow and have a simple knife for a sidearm. Lucky peasants are armoured in light mail, most peasants though are not lucky and are unarmoured.

{Peasant_Crossbowmen_descr_short}Peasant crossbowmen are armed with a crossbow, knife and if lucky enough, some armour.

{Peasant_Spearmen}Peasant Spearmen

{Peasant_Spearmen_descr}Peasant Spearmen, of "Fyrd" as they were called in Anglo-Saxon, are composed of free farmers called up to the service of the king. Unable to afford armour, these troops fight unarmoured making them soft targets for enemy archers, and not suited to prolonged melee. Nevertheless this unit has had training and can form a defensive circle of spears.

{Peasant_Spearmen_descr_short}Comprised of free farmers. Trained and armed with spears but unable to afford armour. 

{Peasants}Peasants

{Peasants_descr}Life at the bottom rung of medieval society is not easy or healthy. In times of war peasants are forced from their farms and drafted into levies, and if they are lucky, given some kind of simple weapon to fight with. Unsurprisingly, peasants are undisciplined troops who are better at fleeing than they are fighting. 

{Peasants_descr_short}In times of war peasants are forced from their farms and drafted into levies. Good cannon fodder.

{Pike_Militia}Pike Militia

{Pike_Militia_descr}The pikeman is a staple of the late Medieval army, and the arms of militia mirror those of professional soldiers. Pike armed militia with a modest amount of training can hold a defensive position very well, though they need good support. Initially lacking armour and thus vulnerable to shooting, this unit can be upgraded to be much better protected.

{Pike_Militia_descr_short}Pike Militias range from armed peasants to semi-professional well trained and equipped soldiers.

{Pikemen}Pikemen

{Pikemen_descr}A pike is long spear around 5m in length and used two-handed. A well trained unit can present enemies with a wall of almost impenetrable sharp steel that can stop a cavalry charge dead in its tracks, a fact not lost on latter Medieval armies. These soldiers wear the ripped tunics that were fashionable in the early sixteenth century.

{Pikemen_descr_short}A well trained unit of pikes can create an almost impenetrable wall of steel, particularly effective against cavalry.

{Pilgrims}Pilgrims

{Pilgrims_descr}Pilgrims are civilians, common folk, priests etc. who are undertaking a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. The undertaking of such a journey is signified by wearing a cross, normally sewn on to the right shoulder or chest. As non-combatants, 'unwilling civilians caught in a battle', these folk are poorly equipped with only simple weapons for protection.

{Pilgrims_descr_short}Civilians making a pilgrimage to the Holy Lands, armed with simple bludgeoning objects.

{Polish_Guard}Polish Guard

{Polish_Guard_descr}The Polish Guard are elite heavy cavalry who enjoy the benefits of superb training and improvements made in armour and weapons throughout the Medieval period. These highly respected and feared troops wear plate armour and are mounted on well armoured horses. These units are armed with a lance and a sword.

{Polish_Guard_descr_short}These highly respected and feared troops wear plate armour and are armed with a lance and a sword.

{Polish_Knights}Polish Knights

{Polish_Knights_descr}Polish knights, "rycerz", are an example of the westernisation of Polish armies. These well trained and elite troops are well equipped with plate armour and lances, making them a fearsome addition to any Polish army. The Polish nobility were some of the best knights in Europe.

{Polish_Knights_descr_short}Well armoured and equipped, and practiced in heavy cavalry tactics these knights make a fearsome addition to any Polish army.

{Polish_Nobles}Polish Nobles

{Polish_Nobles_descr}Despite lances being vogue for armed cavalry in the west, these men continue to operate in the traditional Slavic style. Able to circle in front of their enemies and hurl their javelins at their enemies, these excellent troops switch to their swords for hand to hand combat. Mail armour gives them the same protection as contemporary knights.

{Polish_Nobles_descr_short}Able to circle in front their enemies and shoot, these excellent troops hurl their javelins before engaging in melee.

{Polish_Retainers}Polish Retainers

{Polish_Retainers_descr}These are the poorer and lower status cavalrymen that accompany the nobility to war. Unable to afford plate armour, these units wear brigandine armour, padded cloth armour lined with small metal plates, and are armed with a lance and sword. Trained in heavy cavalry tactics this unit is capable of devastating charges.

{Polish_Retainers_descr_short}Wearing brigandine armour, and armed with a lance and sword, this unit is capable of devastating charges.

{Polish_Shooters}Strzelcy

{Polish_Shooters_descr}Strzelcy, meaning shooter in Polish, are light horse troops created to counter the fast moving forces from the east used by the Russians and Tatars. Protected by light armour and wielding a smaller crossbow to their infantry comrades, these units use their mobility to stay out of trouble while they reload.

{Polish_Shooters_descr_short}Strzelcy, meaning shooter in Polish, are light horse troops protected by light armour using a small crossbow.

{Portuguese_Arquebusiers}Portuguese Arquebusiers

{Portuguese_Arquebusiers_descr}Although primitive, the arquebus is able to inflict considerable damage and panic when used at close range, and can penetrate almost any armour. Portuguese arquebusiers are noted for their uncouth and uncompromising attitude, and are quite happy to follow up a volley with their swords.

{Portuguese_Arquebusiers_descr_short}Effective unit, capable of giving a volley with their guns, then following up with swords.

{Portuguese_Knights}Portuguese Knights

{Portuguese_Knights_descr}Experienced in battle, thanks to the Reconquista, these elite knights are protected by plate armour, ride horses protected by thick felt barding, and are armed with lances and swords. Excellent in the charge, they are more than capable of dishing out a very unpleasant experience to any unit they choose to fight. 

{Portuguese_Knights_descr_short}Elite and experienced knights protected by plate armour, barding and armed with lances and swords.

{Qilich_Arslan}Qilich Arslan

{Qilich_Arslan_descr}The Sultan Qilich Arslan and his bodyguard.

{Qilich_Arslan_descr_short}Qilich Arslan and his bodyguard.

{Quapukulu}Qapukulu

{Quapukulu_descr}Qapukulu, 'court slaves', are household cavalry regiments loyal to the Sultan. Formed from nobles' sons trained from a young age, the young men must pass entry examinations to join this corps. Once enrolled, these soldiers rank even above the Janissaries. These men are equipped with lances and maces, with both man and horse being armoured. Qapukulu are a match for any other cavalry in hand to hand combat.

{Quapukulu_descr_short}Elite household guards, well armoured and equipped with maces, Qapukulu make for tough opponents in hand to hand combat.

{Reiters}Reiters

{Reiters_descr}Reiters derive their name from the German word reiter, meaning horseman. Generally from German states, Reiters are armed with a pistol and spear, and well protected by plate armour. They often employ the shooting circle tactic to create a continuous cycle of firing and reloading. Once the enemy are softened up by this treatment, they charge in and finish them off the old fashioned way.

{Reiters_descr_short}Effective gunpowder units, Reiters are armed with a pistol and spear, and protected by plate armour.

{Religious_Fanatics}Religious Fanatics

{Religious_Fanatics_descr}Religious fanatics are a motley assortment of zealots and maniacs from amongst the common folk of Europe. Banding together with other like-minded militant pilgrims, armed with clubs and other simple weapons, these undisciplined and unruly mobs flock to the Holy Lands, often tagging along behind armies.

{Religious_Fanatics_descr_short}A motley assortment of zealots and maniacs from amongst the common folk of Europe, travelling to the Holy Land.

{Royal_Banderium}Royal Banderium

{Royal_Banderium_descr}Banderium are troops that make up baronial retinues, the 'bandiera'. The elite of these bandeiras, usually nobles, exceptional mercenaries and high ranking members from other bandieras, make up the retinues and bodyguards of members of the royal family, the Royal Banderium. Armed with lances and encased in plate armour they are fierce and loyal warriors.

{Royal_Banderium_descr_short}Armed with lances and encased in plate armour these loyal warriors act as retinues and bodyguards for royalty.

{Royal_Mamluks}Royal Mamluks

{Royal_Mamluks_descr}These men are the Sultan's guard, chosen from the crack Mamluk cavalry and given further training to make them the elite of the elite. Many from this corps will rise to high office, and may even become Sultan themselves. With their spears, maces and tough armour, these are formidable shock troops.

{Royal_Mamluks_descr_short}These men are the Sultan's guard and are chosen from the best Mamluk cavalry, making them the elite of the elite.

{Rufus}Rufus

{Rufus_descr}William's son Rufus, and his bodyguard of hand-picked knights.

{Rufus_descr_short}Rufus and his bodyguard.

{SE_Bodyguard}General's Bodyguard

{SE_Bodyguard_descr}These truly formidable troops are the general's personal bodyguard who accompany him on the battlefield. Selected for their loyalty and martial prowess these elite warriors fear little and shrug off odds that would crush many other units. Wearing heavy mail or partial plate and wielding lances this unit is capable of devastating charges and riding down most foes.

{SE_Bodyguard_descr_short}Elite knights hand picked to protect the general.

{SE_Late_Bodyguard}General's Bodyguard

{SE_Late_Bodyguard_descr}The combination of full plate armour, and later magnificent gothic armour, a fully armoured horse and a lance make these elite warriors mobile killing machines. These warriors are the general's personal guard, fiercely loyal and disciplined there is little this unit cannot take on and not come out on top.

{SE_Late_Bodyguard_descr_short}Elite knights hand picked to protect the general.

{SE_Spear_Militia}Spear Militia

{SE_Spear_Militia_descr}Common throughout Europe, Spear Militia are commoners and peasants who have been levied into local militias to defend towns, roads and bolster armies. Given some training and equipped with a long spear and shield, these units are useful in support roles for heavier and better units.

{SE_Spear_Militia_descr_short}Spear Militia are commoners and peasants levied into local militias to defend settlements and bolster armies, armed with long spears.

{SE_Town_Militia}Town Militia

{SE_Town_Militia_descr}These men are commoners and peasants who have been levied into local militias to defend towns, roads and bolster armies. Given some training and equipped with a short spear and shield, though little armour, these units are useful in defence, but cannot be expected to endure for long on an open battlefield.

{SE_Town_Militia_descr_short}Town Militia are commoners and peasants levied into local militias to defend settlements and bolster armies, armed with short spears.

{S_Archer_Militia}Archer Militia

{S_Archer_Militia_descr}Members of such militias within the Byzantine Empire, are not career soldiers but a type of trained civilian guard called,' tzakones'. Responsible for protecting settlements, roads and forts, these archers are armed with a small bow and sword and wear padded armour. 

{S_Archer_Militia_descr_short}A type of trained civilian guard called,' tzakones' responsible for protecting settlements, roads and forts.

{S_Peasant_Archers}Peasant Archers

{S_Peasant_Archers_descr}While most peasants in Europe were levied into the army, at sword point if need be, some welcomed the opportunity to earn some pay, and travel. Their bows are designed for hunting rather than war, so are only effective against lightly armoured foes. They carry a knife for protection, but should be kept out of hand to hand combat, and will probably run away if any seems likely.

{S_Peasant_Archers_descr_short}A peasant archer is armed with a small bow, and a knife. Unreliable, and only moderately effective as archers.

{Sabadar_Militia}Sabadar Militia

{Sabadar_Militia_descr}Equipped with an axe and composite bow, these excellent, though quite unruly warriors, are Shi-ite militia from Central Asia, whose homelands have come under Timurid domination, and now fight in Timur's armies. Reasonably armoured, these warriors are able to weaken their enemy with missile fire before moving in to finish them off.

{Sabadar_Militia_descr_short}Equipped with axe and composite bow, these excellent, though quite unruly warriors, are Shi-ite militia from Central Asia.

{Saladin}Saladin

{Saladin_descr}The Sultan Saladin and his bodyguard.

{Saladin_descr_short}The Sultan Saladin and his bodyguard.

{Saracen_Militia}Saracen Militia

{Saracen_Militia_descr}Saracen Militia are richer townsfolk who have been levied into militia to guard their settlements. Better trained and equipped than most militias, these troops are armed with a spear and protected by mail. These are townsfolk who can look after themselves on any battlefield, useful for bolstering armies, with good defence against cavalry.

{Saracen_Militia_descr_short}Well armoured townsfolk, these spearmen can take care of themselves on the battlefield, and fill out any army.

{Saxon_Bodyguard}Earl's Huscarls

{Saxon_Bodyguard_descr}A great Earl, and his bodyguard, these men are the closest confidents of their Lord and train at his hall in the art of warfare. Armed with the axes and heavily armoured these men fight to protect their Lord.

{Saxon_Bodyguard_descr_short}Guards to a Saxon Earl.

{Scots_Guard}Scots Guard

{Scots_Guard_descr}The 'Compagnie des Gendarmes Ecossois', better known as the French Scots Guard, are a great example of the term, 'the enemy of my enemy is my ally' as the enmity to England has given the Scots and French common cause. These Scottish troops are elite heavily armoured longbowmen, and form part of the French King's guard.

{Scots_Guard_descr_short}These Scottish troops are elite armoured longbowmen, and form part of the French King's guard.

{Scots_Pike_Militia}Scots Pike Militia

{Scots_Pike_Militia_descr}These lowland Scots have been levied into local militias to defend their settlement and bolster armies. Given some training and equipped with a pike, these units are useful against cavalry and can resist good infantry for a while at least. Their lack of armour and shields make them very vulnerable to archery though. 

{Scots_Pike_Militia_descr_short}Lowland Scots levied into a militia to defend their settlement. Armed with pikes for good defence against cavalry, but lacking in armour.

{Scouts}Scouts

{Scouts_descr}More accustomed to working on foot, Scouts are untrained horsemen and as such not great fighters on horseback. Scouts wear padded or light mail armour and are equipped with a spear or a large axe, as the Danes are wont to do. Cheap to recruit and equip, scouts are useful for running down fleeing troops and scattering archers.

{Scouts_descr_short}Cheap to recruit and equip, scouts are useful for running down fleeing troops and scattering archers.

{Serbian_Hussars}Serbian Hussars

{Serbian_Hussars_descr}The first Hussars are thought to have been Serbian nobles seeking refuge in Hungary. Well renowned as elite light cavalry, those that remained in their native land prefer to take lucrative work as mercenaries, since they are much in demand. Hussars are equipped with light mail, shield and armed with lance and sword.

{Serbian_Hussars_descr_short}Renown for their hit and run tactics, Hussars are equipped with light mail, shield, lance and sword.

{Serbian_Knights}Serbian Knights

{Serbian_Knights_descr}These wild and fierce mercenaries are well armoured and equipped. They ask a high price for their services and like most mercenaries are not too fussy about their employers. Once they charge into melee and run down their foes, most generals will soon forget how much they paid for them.

{Serbian_Knights_descr_short}These wild Eastern mercenaries are elite troops ready to fight for whoever can afford them.

{Sergeant_Spearmen}Sergeant Spearmen

{Sergeant_Spearmen_descr}Sergeant Spearmen are professional warriors, drawn from the lower classes. They have some skill in combat and have been better trained and equipped than levied troops. Their large shields, and spears make them a solid defensive unit, able to resist attacks from both foot and horse, so long as they are well supported. If necessary they can form a defensive circle.

{Sergeant_Spearmen_descr_short}Trained and hardened warriors, protected by a large shield, armed with spears and able to form a defensive ring of spears.

{Sherwood_Archers}Sherwood Archers

{Sherwood_Archers_descr}Hailing from Sherwood forest and trained in the hunt from a young age, these deadly archers have now turned their skills to hunting men. Wielding a longbow made of yew, these archers can spit a man at a hundred paces, this, coupled with their ability to camouflage themselves in any terrain, means they can lay many a terrible ambush.

{Sherwood_Archers_descr_short}Wielding a longbow made of yew, and able to hide in any terrain these men are excellent at ambushes, and are outstanding marksmen.

{Sicilian_Muslim_Archers}Muslim Archers

{Sicilian_Muslim_Archers_descr}In cosmopolitan Sicily, Greeks, Muslims and Normans live side by side in relative harmony. Valuing the protection of the King, the Muslim community provides the army with excellent archers. They are skilled wielders of the eastern style composite bow. They also carry swords, and have light armour.

{Sicilian_Muslim_Archers_descr_short}Troops comprised of Sicilian Muslims fighting for their city, equipped with bows and light armour.

{Sipahi_Lancers}Sipahi Lancers

{Sipahi_Lancers_descr}Sipahis are feudal cavalry, holding land in exchange for military service. In western regions of the Ottoman empire especially, many Sipahis remained Christian. Lancers are drawn from the wealthier Sipahis who can afford the armour needed by close combat troops. They make solid cavalry who can ride down poorer quality infantry, while having enough mobility for flanking moves.

{Sipahi_Lancers_descr_short}A better class of Sipahis, better suited to hand to hand combat than their archers counterparts.

{Sipahis}Sipahis

{Sipahis_descr}Sipahis are feudal cavalry, land holders given nominal power over their fiefs, called timars, in exchange for military service. In western regions of the Ottoman empire especially, many Sipahis remained Christian. These horse archers are better armoured than their tribal counterparts, while not as mobile. This increased protection offers more opportunity for these units to enter into hand to hand combat.

{Sipahis_descr_short}Medium armed horse archers, while less mobile than other horse archers, are better suited to hand to hand fighting.

{Skythikon}Skythikon

{Skythikon_descr}Skythikon is the Byzantine term used to describe the mainly Cuman, Asiatic Nomads, who serve the Byzantine Empire exclusively as horse archers. Accustomed to being on horseback in the plains and steppes of Eastern Europe and the Black Sea region, these cavalrymen wear little armour and are armed with a composite bow and a small sword.

{Skythikon_descr_short}Asiatic Nomads, who serve the Byzantine Empire as horse archers, wearing little armour and armed with a composite bow.

{Slav_Levies}Slav Levies

{Slav_Levies_descr}From their origins in the east, the Slavic people have penetrated the length and breadth of the Balkan peninsula. Living in small scattered groups, they are often dominated by other ethnic groups, and forced to serve in their armies. These capable but unenthusiastic warriors fight in loose formation with spears and shields. Useful in support, they shouldn't be relied upon for the main line.

{Slav_Levies_descr_short}Comprised of commoners from the lower strata of society, these levied troops are armed with spears and little armour.

{Slav_Mercenaries}Slav Mercenaries

{Slav_Mercenaries_descr}Various Slavic peoples live throughout Eastern Europe and the Balkans. Many seek escape from village life by adopting the life of a soldier in the army of anyone who will pay. Capable but poorly equipped warriors fighting in loose formation with short spears, they are best used in a supporting role.

{Slav_Mercenaries_descr_short}Poorly trained and equipped mercenaries from Eastern Europe, armed with spears.

{Southern_Peasants}Peasants

{Southern_Peasants_descr}Life at the bottom rung of medieval society is not easy or healthy. In times of war peasants are forced from their farms and drafted into levies, and if they are lucky, given some kind of simple weapon to fight with. Unsurprisingly, peasants are undisciplined troops who are better at fleeing than they are fighting. 

{Southern_Peasants_descr_short}In times of war peasants are forced from their farms and drafted into levies. Good cannon fodder.

{Spear_Militia}Spear Militia

{Spear_Militia_descr}Common throughout Europe, Spear Militia are commoners and peasants who have been levied into local militias to defend towns, roads and bolster armies. Given some training and equipped with a long spear and shield, these units are useful in support roles for heavier and better units.

{Spear_Militia_descr_short}Spear Militia are commoners and peasants levied into local militias to defend settlements and bolster armies, armed with long spears.

{Stradiots}Stradiots

{Stradiots_descr}In the latter half of the 15th century, the Venetians introduced the Stradiots. Hailing from Albania, these Albanian warriors dress in Turkish fashion and wear padded or light mail armour and helmets. Armed with spear and mace, these unique troops are renowned for their ferocity, and for their lack of discipline.

{Stradiots_descr_short}Armed with spear and mace, these unique troops are renowned for their ferocity.

{Sudanese_Gunners}Sudanese Gunners

{Sudanese_Gunners_descr}Sudanese Gunners come from all over Africa. Made up of slaves and freemen, these sought after troops are well trained and disciplined troops. Armed with an arquebus, this forerunner of the musket is capable of firing deadly armour piercing shots. This noisy, smokey and lethal weapon is so intimidating it causes morale damage as well as physical hurt.

{Sudanese_Gunners_descr_short}Hailing from all over Africa these well trained troops are armed with an arquebus.

{Sudanese_Javelinmen}Sudanese Javelinmen

{Sudanese_Javelinmen_descr}Sudanese Javelinmen are African troops coming from the lands south of the Sahara. They fight in their traditional style, skirmishing with javelins while wearing little or no armour. Good for weakening units and breaking up formations, this light missile unit will quickly dissolve if caught in melee.

{Sudanese_Javelinmen_descr_short}Good for weakening units and breaking up formations, but will quickly dissolve if caught in melee.

{Sudanese_Tribesmen}Sudanese Tribesmen

{Sudanese_Tribesmen_Mercs}Sudanese Tribesmen

{Sudanese_Tribesmen_Mercs_descr}These African warriors fight in a loose formation with swords. Although lightly armed, they are fierce soldiers.

{Sudanese_Tribesmen_Mercs_descr_short}Tribesmen from Africa armed with swords

{Sudanese_Tribesmen_descr}These African infantry fight in a loose formation with swords. Although lightly armed, they are fierce warriors in battle.

{Sudanese_Tribesmen_descr_short}Tribesmen from Africa armed with swords.

{Swiss_Guard}Swiss Guard

{Swiss_Guard_descr}These troops are the Pope's loyal guard, tasked to guard the Holy Father both at home and when the Pope goes to battle. Fiercely loyal, these elite troops are armed with deadly halberds and protected by plate armour. Renowned all over Europe as excellent troops, the Swiss Guard are well suited to guarding such an important figure.

{Swiss_Guard_descr_short}The Pope's personal loyal guard at home and in battle. Elite troops armed with halberds and protected by plate armour.

{Swiss_Pikemen}Swiss Pikemen

{Swiss_Pikemen_Mercs}Swiss Pikemen

{Swiss_Pikemen_Mercs_descr}Although pikemen are often regarded as defensive troops, the Swiss have mastered its use as an offensive weapon. Despite their light equipment, their exceptional ferocity, fortitude and skill make them the equal of any troops on the battlefield, and the master of most. The Swiss are the most renowned mercenaries of their age. 

{Swiss_Pikemen_Mercs_descr_short}The most renowned mercenaries of their age. Lightly equipped, but exceptionally brave and fierce.

{Swiss_Pikemen_descr}Although pikemen are often regarded as defensive troops, the Swiss have mastered its use as an offensive weapon. Despite having light equipment, their exceptional ferocity, fortitude and skill make them the equal of any troops on the battlefield, and the master of most. The Swiss are the most renowned mercenaries of their age. 

{Swiss_Pikemen_descr_short}The most renowned mercenaries of their age. Lightly equipped, but exceptionally brave and fierce

{Sword_and_Buckler_Men}Sword and Buckler Men

{Sword_and_Buckler_Men_descr}Renowned for their swordsmanship, these infantrymen are protected by good light armour and an open helmet. Armed with a metal buckler shield and a double-edged, razor sharp Toledo made sword. These swordsmen are capable of breaking pike formations and wreaking havoc amongst less well armed and trained units. They do however, need to be wary of heavy cavalry.

{Sword_and_Buckler_Men_descr_short}Superior swordsmen wearing light armour and an open helmet, and armed with a double-edged sword and buckler.

{Swordsmen_Militia}Swordsmen Militia

{Swordsmen_Militia_descr}Swordsmen militia are levied troops whose task is to garrison and defend settlements. Better trained and equipped than peasant militia, these troops are armed with swords and protected by light armour and a shield. Useful for dealing with archers and other light infantry.

{Swordsmen_Militia_descr_short}Trained levy troops equipped with light armour, shields and swords whose task it is to defend settlements.

{Swordstaff_Militia}Sword Staff Militia

{Swordstaff_Militia_descr}The sword staff 'svaerdstav' is a simple Danish polearm constructed by placing a sword blade on the end of a pole. Utilised by militias who are formed and trained in this unique weapon, it allows them all the potential of a sword but at a greater length which is perfect for garrisoning a settlement. Being armoured in plate also helps.

{Swordstaff_Militia_descr_short}Sword staff wielding militia armoured in plate.

{Tabardariyya}Tabardariyya

{Tabardariyya_descr}The main role of the Tabardariyya is to guard the Sultan and the palace. Armed with a large axe, 'tabar', similar to a traditional Scandinavian axe. These well armoured, elite troops are formidable on the battle field too. 

{Tabardariyya_descr_short}Normally found guarding the Sultan's palace, these axe-wielding warriors make excellent fighters.

{Tercio_Pikemen}Tercio Pikemen

{Tercio_Pikemen_descr}Tercio Pikemen are well renowned, highly disciplined professional pike troops with a fierce reputation, often supported by gunners. These pikemen are superior fighters equipped with a pike and protected by good armour. Able to present a wall of deadly pikes at oncoming enemies, this unit will give any charging cavalry second thoughts.

{Tercio_Pikemen_descr_short}Superior armoured pikemen, known for their discipline and determination.

{Teutonic_Knights}Teutonic Knights

{Teutonic_Knights_descr}The Teutonic Knights are a German crusading order of knights committed to fighting infidels and pagans. Ruthless and unrelenting, they are the equal of other orders if not quite as disciplined. Wearing white surcoats with a black cross emblazoned on them, encased in heavy mail or plate armour, wielding lances and large maces, these knights love a good melee.

{Teutonic_Knights_descr_short}Ruthless Germanic knightly order, well armoured with lances and large maces, these knights love a good melee.

{Theigns}Theigns

{Theigns_descr}Theigns are freemen farmers who own land of some substance. Required to own mail and shield, these Theigns also come equipped with a short spear for combat. Loyal to the Saxon throne these men will fight to defend their freedom. 

{Theigns_descr_short}Theigns are mail equipped spearmen who fight for Saxon rule.

{Tlaxcalan_Archers}Tlaxcalan Archers

{Tlaxcalan_Archers_descr}Tlaxcalan archers are well equipped, compared to other South American archers, with a bow and a obsidian-studded maquahuitl club, so they can inflict severe injuries to lightly armoured opponents even after they have run out of arrows! 

{Tlaxcalan_Archers_descr_short}Archery unit armed with a simple bow and club. Wears padded armour and carries a shield.

{Tlaxcalan_Mercenaries}Tlaxcalan Mercenaries

{Tlaxcalan_Mercenaries_descr}The Tlaxcalan mercenaries are considered high status troops amongst the Tlaxcala. They are highly trained indigenous warriors who can wield their clubs with great skill and are often used as shock troops. These troops wear padded armour called ichcahuipilli, and use a chimalli shield and a maquahuitl club.

{Tlaxcalan_Mercenaries_descr_short}Highly skilled mercenaries used as shock troops. Armed with a maquahuitl club and wearing padded armour.

{Town_Militia}Town Militia

{Town_Militia_descr}These men are commoners and peasants who have been levied into local militias to defend towns, roads and bolster armies. Given some training and equipped with a short spear and shield, though little armour, these units are useful in defence, but cannot be expected to endure for long on an open battlefield.

{Town_Militia_descr_short}Town Militia are commoners and peasants levied into local militias to defend settlements and bolster armies, armed with short spears.

{Transilvanian_Peasants}Transylvanian Peasants 

{Transilvanian_Peasants_descr}Hailing from the Carpathian mountains, these peasant folk are anything but docile farmers, and have an appetite for war. Bolstering armies for battles and prolonged campaigns these untrained and rowdy troops fight with halberds, and whatever weapons they have acquired in battle.

{Transilvanian_Peasants_descr_short}Fierce peasant volunteers from eastern Europe, armed with halberds that can pull a man off a horse.

{Trebizond_Archers}Trebizond Archers

{Trebizond_Archers_descr}Hailing from the edge of the Black Sea and plying their trade in the service of Byzantium, these men are recruited from the peasantry but well trained in the use of the composite bow. They are effective against light infantry and when grouped in large numbers can become a thorn in the side of any opponent.

{Trebizond_Archers_descr_short}Hailing from the edge of the Black Sea, these well trained archers wear padded armour and use a composite bow.

{Tsars_Guard}Tsars Guard

{Tsars_Guard_descr}These men are the elite of Russian cavalry, being the household troops of the grand princes, or "Tsars" as they were later to style themselves. They are superbly protected by the finest Asian style lamellar armour, and along with their armoured horses, they are almost immune to the arrows of steppe horse archers. With spear and shield, they are formidable fighters in close combat.

{Tsars_Guard_descr_short}Household troops of the Tsar, these are formidable, well armoured elite Eastern European heavy cavalry.

{Tuareg_Camel_Spearmens}Tuareg Camel Spearmen

{Tuareg_Camel_Spearmens_descr}The Tuareg are fierce and independent camel herding nomads from the Sahara. Tuareg men wear a distinctive blue or indigo veil that covers most of their face. These hardy spearmen are well used to riding camels and make excellent desert cavalry. Camels have an advantage over horses in melee as horses detest the smell of camels.

{Tuareg_Camel_Spearmens_descr_short}Fierce and independent camel riding nomads armed with a spear but lightly armoured.

{Turkish_Archers}Turkish Archers

{Turkish_Archers_descr}A mixture of settled tribesmen, farmers and conquered peoples, these archers come from the bottom end of Turkish society. Used to hunting with a bow and living a harsh existence, these troops are reasonably hardy and proficient with their bows, but will melt away quickly in melee combat. Useful for harassing enemy archers and flanks.

{Turkish_Archers_descr_short}Used to hunting with a bow these troops are proficient with their bows, but will melt away quickly in melee.

{Turkish_Horse_Archers}Turkish Horse Archers

{Turkish_Horse_Archers_descr}Accustomed to life in the saddle these hardy bowmen come from the poorer level of nomad society and make excellent horse archers. Wearing little or no armour these highly manoeuvrable troops pepper the enemy with arrows, and use their speed to stay out of harm's way.

{Turkish_Horse_Archers_descr_short}Lightly armoured troops, who can pepper the enemy with arrows and use their speed to stay out of harm's way.

{Turkish_Javelinmen}Turkish Javelinmen

{Turkish_Javelinmen_descr}Turkish Javelinmen are made up of 'Azabs', meaning bachelors, which are recruited for campaigns and supported by money and provisions supplied by their home village. Wearing little or no armour Turkish Javelinmen are light troops used to harass enemy archers and enemy flanks from a distance.

{Turkish_Javelinmen_descr_short}Turkish Javelinmen are light troops used to harass enemy archers and enemy flanks from a distance.

{Turkomans}Turkomans

{Turkomans_Mercs}Turkomans

{Turkomans_Mercs_descr}Tribal Turkish nomads accustomed to life in the saddle, who have become mercenaries. These hardy bowmen have a fierce and unruly reputation. Although their composite bow is their main weapon, these fearsome warriors are happy to engage in melee if the odds are with them, especially after they have weakened and broken the enemy's formation with missile fire.

{Turkomans_Mercs_descr_short}Tribal Turkish nomads, accustomed to life in the saddle. These hardy bowmen have a fierce and unruly reputation.

{Turkomans_descr}Tribal Turkish nomads, accustomed to life in the saddle. These hardy bowmen have a fierce and unruly reputation. Although their composite bow is their main weapon, these fearsome warriors are happy to engage in melee if the odds are with them, especially after they have weakened and broken the enemy's formation with missile fire.

{Turkomans_descr_short}Tribal Turkish nomads, accustomed to life in the saddle. These hardy bowmen have a fierce and unruly reputation.

{Turkopoles}Turkopoles

{Turkopoles_descr}Turkopoles are mercenaries hired by Christian forces in the Holy Lands for light cavalry duties. Composed of Christianised Turks and Eastern Orthodox Christians, these Turkopoles are armed with a bow and sword, and are capable of adopting a shooting circle formation, which provides constant fire against the enemy.

{Turkopoles_descr_short}Turkopoles are mercenaries hired by Christian forces in the Holy Lands for light cavalry duties, armed with bow and sword.

{Urban_Militia}Urban Militia

{Urban_Militia_descr}These Urban Militia are well armoured and trained troops, far superior to most militias who are little more than levied peasants. Used widely by the Alohas to garrison and defend settlements in Moorish occupied Spain and Portugal, these troops are equipped with a sword and are a useful addition to any army.

{Urban_Militia_descr_short}Equipped with a sword, well trained and protected by heavy armour these troops are far superior to most militias.

{Varangian_Guard}Varangian Guard

{Varangian_Guard_descr}The most famous of all Byzantine units, made up wholly of Scandinavians and Englishmen, The Varangian guard were initially a military levy sent to the Byzantine emperor from the 'Rus' which are now a permanent unit often used as royal bodyguards. These superbly skilled warriors wield two-handed axes with vicious abandon, hacking down the Emperor's enemies.

{Varangian_Guard_descr_short}The Varangian guard are superb two-handed axemen, protected by heavy armour.

{Vardariotai}Vardariotai

{Vardariotai_descr}The Vardariotai are drawn mainly from the Magyars that settled in the Vardar Valley, and their descendents. Disciplined and highly trained, the Vardariotai are elite horse archers. They wear light mail or brigandine armour and fire a powerful composite bow from horseback. Able to relentlessly pepper their enemies with arrows and use their mobility to stay out of trouble. 

{Vardariotai_descr_short}Disciplined and highly trained, the Vardariotai wear light armour and fire a composite bow from horseback.

{Venetian_Archers}Venetian Archers

{Venetian_Archers_descr}With their extensive trading contacts in the East, the Venetians are more open than most to eastern influence. These men wear European style armour, but use a powerful Asian style composite bow. They also have swords to deal with enemies who come to close.

{Venetian_Archers_descr_short}Well armoured archery unit with powerful composite bows. Able to stand up to many melee units.

{Venetian_Heavy_Infantry}Venetian Heavy Infantry

{Venetian_Heavy_Infantry_descr}Well armoured, and equipped with a war hammer, these men are recruited to protect the far flung interests of the Venetian empire from many enemies, both at sea and on land. Their long hafted war hammers are designed to penetrate armour, making this heavy infantry unit a good choice for tackling armoured opponents.

{Venetian_Heavy_Infantry_descr_short}Armoured and equipped with a war hammer, this unit's task is to protect the far flung outposts of the Venetian empire. 

{Viking_Raiders}Viking Raiders

{Viking_Raiders_descr}The medieval era sees the Vikings make way for feudal warriors, but there are still those who follow the old ways. These wild and hardy warriors live for battle, whether it be with an army or a smaller raiding force. Armed with an axe and light armour, these hard men from the north are an intimidating prospect on the battlefield.

{Viking_Raiders_descr_short}Wild and hardy warriors from the cold north armed with axes and light armour.

{Voulgier}Voulgier

{Voulgier_descr}The voulge is a polearm related to simple harvesting tools but turned into a weapon of war. Having a large, slightly curved slashing blade on the top, this weapon in the hands of Voulgiers can deliver severe and oft fatal wounds to any unfortunate victims. This weapon is effective against infantry and cavalry.

{Voulgier_descr_short}Well equipped, these men make solid infantry, and their polearms make them effective against both foot and mounted foes.

{Welsh_Longbowmen}Welsh Longbowmen

{Welsh_Longbowmen_Mercs}Welsh Longbowmen

{Welsh_Longbowmen_Mercs_descr}As the inventors of the longbow, the Welsh are among it's most skilful proponents. Since their land is poor, many seek adventure and fortune in foreign armies. Though weak in close combat, they're deadly at range. They can plant sharpened stakes in front of their position to keep enemies at bay.

{Welsh_Longbowmen_Mercs_descr_short}The first wielders of the longbow. Totally unarmoured means they need to stay out of melee. Can lay stakes.

{Welsh_Longbowmen_descr}As the inventors of the longbow, the Welsh are among it's most skilful proponents. Since their land is poor, many seek adventure and fortune in foreign armies. Though weak in close combat, they're deadly at range. They can plant sharpened stakes in front of their position to keep enemies at bay.

{Welsh_Longbowmen_descr_short}The first wielders of the longbow. Being totally unarmoured means they need to stay out of melee. Can lay stakes.

{Welsh_Spearmen}Welsh Spearmen

{Welsh_Spearmen_Mercs}Welsh Spearmen

{Welsh_Spearmen_Mercs_descr}Although better known for their archery, the spear is a popular weapon in Wales, and despite being lightly equipped, these men wield it with great effect. Willing to hire themselves out to anyone, including their old enemies the English, these Welshmen make valuable mercenaries. These wild troops are capable of forming a defensive ring with their spears.

{Welsh_Spearmen_Mercs_descr_short}Fierce Welsh mercenaries, who fight unarmoured, equipped with a spear and capable of forming a defensive ring of spears.

{Welsh_Spearmen_descr}Although better known for their archery, the spear is a popular weapon in Wales, and despite being lightly equipped, these men wield it with great effect. Willing to hire themselves out to anyone, including their old enemies the English, these Welshmen make valuable mercenaries. These wild troops are capable of forming a defensive ring with their spears.

{Welsh_Spearmen_descr_short}Fierce Welsh mercenaries, who fight unarmoured, equipped with a spear and capable of forming a defensive ring of spears.

{Woodsmen}Woodsmen

{Woodsmen_descr}Woodsmen are a hardy folk from the forests of North Eastern Europe. These are tough men, accustomed to lives of hard work in an unforgiving environment. They band together with likeminded fellow woodsmen to protect their homes and people in times of need. Armed with their tools of the trade, a large axe, they can hew down other light infantry, and inflict considerable damage on heavier foes. Especially dangerous ambushing in their native forests.

{Woodsmen_descr_short}Hardy folk from the forests of North Eastern Europe, armed with a large axe.

{Yeoman_Archers}Yeoman Archers

{Yeoman_Archers_descr}Drawn from English freeholders required by the King to be trained in warfare, Yeoman Archers are highly skilled ranged troops. Lightly armoured and equipped with a longbow for ranged combat, as well as wielding a large metal mallet for crushing armoured opponents in melee. Yeomen are able to lay defensive wooden stakes to help keep enemies at bay.

{Yeoman_Archers_descr_short}English freeholders are required by the King to be trained in warfare, Yeoman archers are highly skilled ranged troops. 

{Zweihander}Zwei Hander

{Zweihander_descr}Literally meaning two hander’s, in German, in reference to the grip needed to wield their massive swords. Zweihanders are very heavily armoured foot troops who can cut a bloody swathe through nearly all infantry they will encounter. This unit is deployed by the Holy Roman Empire and often forms the vanguard when assaulting enemy battlelines.

{Zweihander_descr_short}These well trained warriors are protected by plate armour and wield a mighty two-handed sword.

{baghlah}Baghlah

{baghlah_descr}First used in the 13th century, this vessel of Arabic origin, is used mainly as an ocean going cargo vessel. It can weigh up to 400 tonnes and enterprising captains can mount swivel cannons on her hull to ward off pirates. It can cross great distances, making it useful for ferrying troops and supplies to far away locations.

{baghlah_descr_short}Arabic long distance sailing ship, with mounted swivel guns, useful for transporting troops and supplies.

{caravel}Caravel

{caravel_descr}A small, highly manoeuvrable, three-masted ship used by Spain and Portugal for long voyages of exploration. Lightly armed compared to other ships of the 15th century, but capable of undertaking and surviving long voyages in the open sea, making it possible to discover far off places.

{caravel_descr_short}A small, highly manoeuvrable, three-masted ship used by Spain and Portugal for long voyages of exploration. 

{carrack}Carrack

{carrack_descr}The first fully ocean going ship in Europe, the Carrack is a four-masted vessel developed in the Mediterranean during the 15th century, and later used throughout Europe. Stable in heavy seas, and roomy enough to carry provisions for long voyages, these sturdy ships are well armed, sporting broadside firing cannon arrays, as well as large compliments of onboard marines.

{carrack_descr_short}A large capital ship armed with broadside firing cannons. Capable of travelling across the ocean.

{cog}Cog

{cog_descr}The Cog is a small 11th century vessel with an attached keel, rudder and a single square sail, initially used by Europeans for trading in the rougher coastal Atlantic waters. Cogs have a basic armament of soldiers and archers stationed aboard, as well as the ship's crew who can help out if boarded.

{cog_descr_short}A small trading vessel armed with a basic armament of soldiers and archers.

{dhow}Dhow

{dhow_descr}In use for over a thousand years the Dhow is a traditional Arab sailing vessel with one or more triangular 'Lateen' sails. These ships are used for trading but can be upgraded to carry warriors armed with bow and scimitar for assaulting enemy ships.

{dhow_descr_short}A ship already in use for a thousand years. The Dhow is a trading vessel that can carry troops.

{dragon_boat}Dragon Boat

{dragon_boat_descr}Dragon Boats are the command ships of 12th century Danish fleets. Equipped with a keel and a double set of rowers which doubles the fighting power in melee, as all rowers onboard are also warriors. These boats carry ballista for firing grappling hooks to pull enemy ships into contact, enabling boarding actions.

{dragon_boat_descr_short}A larger version of the longship, able to carry more men as well as grappling hooks for boarding actions.

{dromon}Dromon

{dromon_descr}A warship used by the Byzantine Empire since the 6th century, the Dromon is propelled by oar and sail and have a central tower from which marines can use their bow or throw spears and other projectiles.

{dromon_descr_short}Used by the Byzantine Empire since the 6th century, with a central tower with a firing platform for marines.

{fire_ship}Fire Ship

{fire_ship_descr}The Fire Ship is a Byzantine Dromon modified to carry a medieval version of the flame thrower used to spew out Greek Fire at unfortunate foes. The flame thrower consists of a copper tube and a set of bellows which can pump out fiery death on to enemy ships, burning both enemy crew and vessel, and occasionally the attackers as well.

{fire_ship_descr_short}A Dromon modified to carry the medieval naval equivalent of a flamethrower.

{galleass}Galleass

{galleass_descr}Galleasses came into prominence during the early 16th century. Far larger than war galleys and much harder to board, Galleasses feature a forecastle resembling a mini turret, with forward mounted centreline cannons as well as side facing cannons. Galleasses carry more sails than true galleys, and are far deadlier. A broadside from a Galleass can devastate most ships.

{galleass_descr_short}The strongest galley available to generals. With cannons facing all the way around the prow, it can devastate most opposition.

{galley}Galley

{galley_descr}The basic Galley design is derived from ships used in Ancient Rome. Predominantly powered by banks of oars and armed with a ram and marines for melee. The Galley has supplemental sails for getting to battles without tiring the men and are used by everyone in the Mediterranean from east to west.

{galley_descr_short}Oar powered Mediterranean vessels equipped with a ram and carries archers.

{grande_carrack}Grande Carrack

{grande_carrack_descr}Precursor to the great galleon of later centuries, the Grande Carrack is a superior version of the Carrack, used in the late 15th century and early 16th century. Larger and better armed and armoured, this awesome example of sea power is a hard nut to crack.

{grande_carrack_descr_short}A supremely powerful warship. Sporting heavy cannon broadsides and a thick hull. Can travel across the ocean. 

{gun_holk}Gun Holk

{gun_holk_descr}The Gun Holk is an upgrade of the basic Holk design. Constructed of tough oak, equipped with two sails and a greatly increased fore and aft castle armed with a battery of cannons. The soldiers on these vessels are equipped with gun powder weapons, making this a powerful ship, able to take on other ships and repel boarding actions.

{gun_holk_descr_short}An upgraded Holk, armed with cannons in the fore castle and extra marines armed with gunpowder weapons.

{holk}Holk

{holk_descr}Constructed with strong and durable oak, the Holk is an 11th century development of the Cog. It can hold and carry more soldiers for added defence and has a fore and aft castle added, giving the archers a better firing platform, as well as a place to mount small artillery, enhancing its already deadly capabilities.

{holk_descr_short}An upgraded Cog equipped with small artillery pieces in the fore and aft castles and a durable oak hull.

{ladya}Lad'Ya

{ladya_descr}The Lad’ya is a Russian ship akin to a Cog crossed with a Longboat. First created around Novgorod in the 9th century, its design soon spread throughout the region. Equipped to carry soldiers and catapults as well, this ship is a deadly vessel against ill defended targets.

{ladya_descr_short}Early Russian ship created near Novgorod. Carries soldiers and catapults for raiding land and smashing sea targets.

{lanternas}Lanternas

{lanternas_descr}The Lanternas is the premier version of the war galley, now equipped with gun powder weapons! Being larger, heavier, more durable and better equipped than the war galley, the Lanternas is used by naval commanders in the Mediterranean during the 15th century. Featuring multiple centreline guns and some flanking guns it can take on and destroy war galleys. 

{lanternas_descr_short}A superior version of the war galley equipped with gunpowder weapons. Large, heavier and more durable than a war galley.

{longboat}Longboat

{longboat_descr}Longships have been in use by the Vikings since the 9th century. Mainly used as troop carriers, these ships carried the mighty Viking warriors across Europe for raiding and pillaging, and today it carries their equally fearsome decedents. 

{longboat_descr_short}Usually used as a Viking troop carrier. These ships carry Scandinavian raiding parties across Europe.

{merc_cog}Mercenary Cog

{merc_cog_descr}The Cog is a small 11th century vessel with an attached keel, rudder and a single square sail, initially used by Europeans for trading in the rougher coastal Atlantic waters. Cogs have a basic armament of soldiers and archers stationed aboard, as well as the ship's crew who can help out if boarded.

{merc_cog_descr_short}A Mercenary Cog. Available to the highest bidder!

{merc_galley}Mercenary Galley

{merc_galley_descr}The basic Galley design is derived from ships used in Ancient Rome. Predominantly powered by banks of oars and armed with a ram and marines for melee. The Galley has supplemental sails for getting to battles without tiring the men and are used by everyone in the Mediterranean from east to west.

{merc_galley_descr_short}A Mercenary Galley. Available to the highest bidder!

{pirate_ship}Pirate Ship

{pirate_ship_descr}The Pirate ship is similar to a cog but used by traitorous admirals who seek fame and fortune for their own cause!

{pirate_ship_descr_short}A Pirate ship! Commanded by a traitorous Admiral seeking fame and fortune!

{war_galley}War Galley

{war_galley_descr}Used throughout the Mediterranean since the 11th century. War Galleys are larger than normal galleys, and carry more tonnage as a result of being equipped with siege weapons like ballista or catapults, and having a larger compliment of oarsmen and soldiers onboard. The standard tactic for engaging is to disable the opposing ships' sails then ram and board it. 

{war_galley_descr_short}War Galleys are larger than normal galleys. Equipped with ballista or catapults.